The New York Yankees appear to be fading from the spotlight in this year’s free-agent frenzy, as high-profile sluggers continue to sign with rival clubs.
On Thursday night, the Los Angeles Dodgers secured Kyle Tucker with a four-year, $240 million contract, followed less than 24 hours later by the New York Mets landing Bo Bichette on a three-year, $126 million deal.
Fans in the Bronx had hoped one of these stars might bolster the Yankees’ lineup, but both targets are now off the table.
The ripple effect has left the Yankees potentially scrambling to retain All-Star outfielder Cody Bellinger. With Tucker and Bichette gone, Bellinger emerges as the most prominent hitter still available in free agency, drawing interest from multiple teams, including the Toronto Blue Jays and New York Mets.
“With Kyle Tucker and Bo Bichette off the market, Cody Bellinger is now the top hitter remaining on the free-agent market,” MLB insider Mark Feinsand reported.
“The Yankees and Blue Jays figure to be his top suitors, though the Mets – who remain in need of OF help – still can’t be ruled out despite signing Bichette.”
Bellinger had a productive first season in pinstripes, hitting .272 with 29 home runs and 98 RBIs. His presence in the lineup is seen as crucial for the Yankees, especially to provide support for star slugger Aaron Judge. Without Bellinger, the team’s offensive depth could be compromised, leaving Judge shouldering much of the burden.
Fans across social media have been quick to express frustration with the Yankees’ ownership and front office following the high-profile misses.
“Another miss by Hal Steinbrenner and Brian Cashman,” one fan posted.
“Bo to the Mets, Tucker to Dodgers. Hal should step down,” added another.
Many supporters fear the Yankees’ inability to secure marquee free agents signals a larger pattern of underperformance in the Hal Steinbrenner and Brian Cashman era. One fan even predicted an overreliance on less proven options, forecasting a platoon in left field while Judge faces constant intentional walks.
“Hal gonna get outbid. Get ready for a Domingues/Hays platoon in LF and watch Judge break the single season intentional walk record,” they commented.
The Bellinger factor
Cody Bellinger now represents the Yankees’ best remaining opportunity to make a statement this offseason. Retaining him could restore confidence among fans and stabilize the team’s lineup heading into the 2026 season.
Analysts point out that Bellinger‘s versatility, power, and experience in the American League East would make him a valuable asset not just for the Yankees’ offense, but also for team morale and clubhouse leadership.
“The Yankees can’t afford to let Bellinger slip away,” one MLB analyst remarked. “He provides balance to a lineup that otherwise leans heavily on Aaron Judge. His decision could define how competitive New York looks next season.”
While there is still time for the Yankees to maneuver in free agency, the missed opportunities with Tucker and Bichette have cast a shadow over the organization.
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