MLB Rumors: Yankees “holding firm to their price” on Cody Bellinger as Nolan Arenado’s SoCal roots fuel Angels buzz

All-Star outfielder Cody Bellinger has been one of the most talked-about free agents this offseason. However, the former NL MVP remains unsigned in free agency.

Bellinger had a strong 2025 season with the New York Yankees and has been linked with a return to the AL East franchise in free agency. However, according to MLB insider Mark Feinsand, the Yankees are not holding on to their price for the All-Star outfielder.

"The Yankees are holding firm to their price, not wanting to bid against themselves for Bellinger, though most believe the two sides will ultimately find common ground and come to terms on a deal," Feinsand wrote.

The Los Angeles Dodgers, Angels, New York Mets and the Toronto Blue Jays are the other teams in pursuit of Bellinger.

Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Angels have emerged as a suitor for veteran St. Louis Cardinals infielder Nolan Arenado. The eight-time All-Star is a California native and could be tempted to join the Los Angeles team.

"The Angels are reportedly interested in Nolan Arenado, who is expected to be traded or outright released by the rebuilding Cardinals before the start of the season," MLB insider Joel Reuter wrote. "They also need to sort out center field, where Jo Adell (-14 DRS, -12 OAA) struggled mightily last year after Mike Trout shifted to full-time DH duties, while second base figures to be an open competition between Christian Moore, Kyren Paris, Oswald Peraza and reclamation project Vaughn Grissom."

Yankees could pivot to internal solutions if Cody Bellinger signs elsewhere

According to MLB insider Mark Feinsand, the Yankees could turn to Jasson Dominguez and prospect Spencer Jones to play left field if their pursuit of Cody Bellinger fails in free agency.

Several reports have claimed that Bellinger is expecting a long-term deal worth around $180 million this offseason.

Edited by Chaitanya Prakash