MLB insider issues warning as Mets dodge Cody Bellinger, squandering prime chance to rattle $8.2B crosstown rival

The New York Mets have lost two high-profile targets this week after former stars Edwin Diaz and Pete Alonso found new teams in free agency.

While losing Pete Alonso to the Baltimore Orioles on a five-year, $155 million contract landed a huge blow for the NL East franchise, the Mets could still add more power to the hitting order by signing All-Star outfielder Cody Bellinger.

While signing Bellinger will strengthen the Mets' lineup, it'll also be a big blow to crosstown rivals, the New York Yankees, as they are also pursuing the outfielder in free agency.

MLB insider Ken Rosenthal warned the Mets about not missing the chance to rattle their longtime rivals.

“Signing Bellinger away from the Yankees would be one way for the Mets to change the narrative," Rosenthal wrote. "Signing Tucker would be another. The Mets have given no indication they're pursuing them, or that they are willing to spend at that level.”

Bellinger spent the 2025 season with the Yankees, valued at $8.2 billion per Forbes, and with Alonso off the market, the former NL MVP has emerged as a top target for several teams.

Cody Bellinger's agent Scott Boras hints at reunion with former team

While the New York teams are linked with Cody Bellinger, his agent Scott Boras said the former Los Angeles Dodgers star could also fit well with the reigning two-time World Series winners.

“I think Cody had a great, great experience here. Rookie of the Year. MVP. And he was Hollywood ringing while he was here so I think that players who have those kinds of experiences over the years are always very welcoming of anywhere like that,” Boras said.

Bellinger has slashed 281/.338/.477 in the last three seasons after leaving the Dodgers. His best season since his MVP-winning campaign in 2019 came with the Yankees last season, as he registered 29 home runs with 98 RBIs.