Harrison Bader, a Gold Glove center fielder, was signed by the New York Mets on January 4, but they might not be done building their core. Cody Bellinger, the 2019 NL MVP, is still available as a free agent, and the Mets are still said to be interested in signing him.
However, as MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand noted, the Mets’ financial situation might prohibit them from making a major move for Bellinger.
“The (Los Angeles Angels), (San Francisco Giants), Mets, and (Seattle Mariners) all make sense as potential landing spots for Bellinger, but none of those clubs appear to be ready and/or willing to pay the asking price, which is believed to be north of $200 million.”
Is $200 million too much to ask for Cody Bellinger given the Mets’ well-equipped outfield?
Owner of the Mets Steve Cohen is willing to make significant purchases to rebuild the team into a serious contender. Bellinger’s multi-year contract might be too large.
The other outfield alternatives for the Mets right now are CF Brandon Nimmo and RF Starling Marte. Marte appears to be recovered from the groin ailment that kept him from playing in 86 games the previous season. He has been on fire in the Dominican Winter League.
Despite having a shorter season than expected, Marte stole 23 bases, demonstrating his continued agility, while Nimmo had a.988 fielding percentage, making him one of the top players left off of the previous All-MLB team selection.
What Benefits Would the Mets Receive from Signing Bellinger?
Bellinger can play several spots because to his versatility, but the Mets would have to rearrange their outfield because he has spent the majority of his career at right, center, or first base.
Bellinger’s skill at the plate was evident as he hit 26 home runs into the seats and produced the best slash line since his MVP campaign,.305/.356/.503.
As the offseason goes on, the Mets’ name will probably keep coming up in the conversation about Bellinger.