The New York Yankees are still pushing for Cody Bellinger, but this veteran has been named as a potential fallback option.
The push for Cody Bellinger continues as the offseason winds down, and the New York Yankees are reportedly still trying to meet in the middle with him and his agent, Scott Boras. In their push for Bellinger, Kyle Tucker agreed to a deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers at the same time.
This has now left Brian Cashman and the Bronx Bombers scrambling for the next player to pivot to if Bellinger signs with another team such as the New York Mets. MLB insider Jon Heyman shared on X that the Yankees are monitoring outfielder Austin Hays. SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 12: Austin Hays #12 of the Cincinnati Reds bats against the Athletics in the top of the first inning at Sutter Health Park on September 12, 2025 in Sacramento, California. “Cardinals, Yankees and Mets are among many teams who’ve maintained contact with free agent OF Austin Hays, who was fully healthy and had a very nice season in 2025,“ Heyman wrote on X. “Cody Bellinger remains the top OF target of the two NY teams.“ In 380 at-bats last season, Hays slashed .266/.315/.453 with 15 home runs and 64 RBI for the Cincinnati Reds. He produced a 105 OPS+ for the Reds last season in what was one of his more productive seasons so far in his career. Hays certainly wouldn't be a bad signing for the Yankees, but there would still be a major drop off from Bellinger. However, his deal would certainly be more affordable. Spotrac shows Hays' market value is a one-year deal worth $5 million. At 30 years old, there is the possibility he could sign for a two- or three-year deal if the Yankees are keen on locking him down for next season and beyond. For now, though, the focus should be to do everything possible to sign Bellinger. If he signs elsewhere, then the Yankees can focus on their remaining options. More MLB: Yankees Provide Jazz Chisholm Jr. Trade Update: Report
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Yankees prepared to let Cody Bellinger walk after latest offerThe Yankees believe their current proposal to the free agent slugger is more than reasonable.
Read more »
Cody Bellinger latest: What we know of Yankees, Mets pursuitsCody Bellinger is holding his line, which has allowed a second New York team to legitimately enter the fray.
Read more »
Austin Wells has concerning reply to Cody Bellinger's Instagram post as Yankees fans plead for free agent to stayCould the Yankees’ starting catcher have caught wind of a major departure?
Read more »
Yankees Get Stubborn In Cody Bellinger Pursuit, Open Door for Mets: ReportThe New York Yankees reportedly have been pursuing Cody Bellinger, but are unwilling to up their latest offer to him.
Read more »
Yankees sign Seth Brown as Cody Bellinger talks lingerThe Yankees continue to stockpile depth while holding out for their top offseason target.
Read more »
Yankees add slugger who mashed in 1st 2 seasons; latest on Cody BellingerThe Yankees have signed a veteran first baseball/outfielder with left-handed power.
Read more »