New York did not have a good 2025 MLB season. While the Yankees did manage to beat the Red Sox and get to the ALDS, the Mets had a historic collapse and could not even make the postseason, even after spending a lot of money in the offseason. Now, with the current offseason, the front offices of both teams have a lot of work to do, and they are not off to a good start.

Reports are coming in that Edwin Diaz from the Mets and Cody Bellinger from the Yankees are going to test free agency. SNY TV’s Instagram handle posted saying, “Edwin Díaz has opted out of his contract with the Mets and will officially become a free agent.” At the same time, John Heyman also posted, “Cody Bellinger has opted out.”

Cody Bellinger and Edwin Díaz have both officially opted out of their contracts, choosing free agency.

Bellinger gave up his final $25 million year after hitting .272 with 29 home runs in 2025. Díaz walked away from two guaranteed years worth $38 million after posting a 1.63 ERA and 98 strikeouts. Both moves were expected, yet they signal a major shift for two of New York’s biggest stars.

Despite entering free agency, Bellinger and the Yankees maintain mutual interest in a reunion for 2026.

The 30-year-old outfielder provided strong defense and led the team with consistency across 152 games. His age and production make him one of the most attractive hitters available this winter. Several teams are expected to pursue him aggressively, testing how far New York is willing to go.

The same holds true for Díaz, who reminded the league why he’s among baseball’s most dominant closers.

His 0.87 WHIP and elite strikeout metrics ranked in the 99th percentile across key pitching categories. Díaz has expressed a desire to return, saying the Mets treated him and his family well. But with his numbers and reputation, several contenders are expected to line up with bigger, longer offers.

So now, New York’s offseason begins with more exits than arrivals, and plenty of noise. Edwin Díaz and Cody Bellinger walking away says more about chaos than confidence. If this is how the rebuild starts, both teams might need construction helmets, not contracts.

The New York Yankees are expected to sign a big-money superstar in the offseason

Every winter, the New York Yankees promise to “go big,” and every winter, their fans wonder if that means trophies or just payroll headlines. This offseason feels different, though.

The Bronx office is cooking something loud, and the baseball world can smell the money.

Kyle Tucker’s free agency has quickly become one of the most-watched stories of the offseason. The 28-year-old outfielder hit .296 with 35 home runs and 103 RBIs last season, showing elite consistency at the plate. His left-handed swing perfectly matches Yankee Stadium’s short right-field porch, a detail scouts haven’t overlooked. With Cody Bellinger opting out, the Yankees now have a clearer path to pursue Tucker aggressively.

Front-office sources have confirmed that New York views Tucker as a long-term fit in both offense and defense.

His projected market value between $400 and $500 million reflects just how many teams are preparing to bid. The Yankees know waiting could cost them another franchise player, as contenders like the Dodgers and Giants remain interested. For a fan base desperate to see another superstar in pinstripes, this chase carries real weight.

The Yankees have money, motive, and a wide-open lane to chase Kyle Tucker. With Bellinger out, New York’s pursuit feels less like a luxury and more like a necessity. If history repeats itself, the Bronx Bombers might finally buy the power they’ve been missing.