Rumored Yankees Target Reportedly Being Pursued By Cubs, Blue Jays

It sounds like one Yankees rumored target could land with the Cubs or Blue Jays

It sounds like one rumored New York Yankees free-agent target could find a new home soon.

New York entered the offseason widely expected to be the favorite to land star outfielder Cody Bellinger. The 2019 National League Most Valuable Player has been linked to the Yankees on numerous occasions over the last year.

The Yankees needed to add outfield help and Bellinger seemingly was the best one available. Although this was the case, New York ended up landing Juan Soto, Alex Verdugo, and Trent Grisham ultimately taking itself out of the sweepstakes for Bellinger.

Bellinger still is a free agent and the top two teams expected to be in contention for his services reportedly are the Chicago Cubs and Toronto Blue Jays, according to the New York Post's Jon Heyman.

"I think Bellinger is the guy to talk about, I mean he is the best position player out there (in free agency)," Heyman said. "He is outstanding...The Cubs to me make perfect sense. I know he loved it there, at least we've heard that. 

"He hit .306 last year with a .881 OPS and resurrected his offensive game. His defensive game and base-running game have always been there, I think the Cubs make perfect sense. Obviously, the Jays know that they didn't get (Shohei Ohtani), they didn't get (Juan Soto). They want a left-handed bat...I think Toronto will be in there big for Bellinger." 

Bellinger looked like a star again in 2023 while playing for the Cubs so it wouldn't be too surprising to see him go back there. Toronto has been looking to make a major splash this offseason and has a hole in center field with Kevin Kiermaier possibly on the move in free agency. 

Don't be surprised if either Chicago or Toronto lands Bellinger shortly.