Super-agent Scott Boras has officially kicked off the bidding war for free-agent slugger Cody Bellinger with his signature theatrical flair, comparing his client to a legendary fighter pilot to underscore his immense value to contending teams like the New York Yankees and New York Mets.
With his bold claims and “Top Gun” theme, Boras made it clear that Bellinger’s next contract is not merely a free-agent deal, but a top-tier acquisition expected to soar straight into the record books.
Bellinger: The “Top Gun of the Class”
At the General Managers Meetings, Boras utilized colorful, high-altitude metaphors to market Cody Bellinger (the main character in this bidding war) as the premier talent in the current class:
- The Pilot: Boras reportedly called Bellinger the “top gun of the class” and a “versatile viper”—a reference to the F-16 Fighting Falcon (also known as the Viper) known for its versatility.
- The Role: He dubbed Bellinger a “middle-of-the-lineup merlin” and, specifically referencing his time in the Bronx, said he filled the role of “Ice Man” in the Yankees lineup because he “cooled” any concerns about hitting behind Aaron Judge.
- The Claim: Boras cemented his argument by calling Bellinger the “only 5-tool outfielder on the free agent market,” highlighting his speed, defense, power, hit tool, and experience playing in the game’s three biggest markets (Los Angeles, Chicago, and New York).
The New York Bidding War
Bellinger’s free agency is currently centered around a heated Yankees vs. Mets rivalry, with both teams desperate for a left-handed power bat and defensive versatility.
| Factor | New York Yankees | New York Mets |
| Current Fit | Ideal fit after his successful 2025 season (29 HR, 98 RBI, .814 OPS). Bellinger’s swing is perfectly suited for Yankee Stadium’s short porch. | A necessity for Steve Cohen’s team, which needs a left-handed star and a massive infusion of excitement to compete with the Yankees. |
| Contract Prediction | Projected to re-sign for 6–7 years, $168M–$182M with a high Average Annual Value (AAV). | They have the financial firepower to easily offer more total guaranteed money and years than any other bidder. |
| Boras’s Leverage | Boras has already confirmed he’s had discussions with the Yankees and believes they are an “ideal fit.” | The Mets are also heavily pursuing Pete Alonso, and using Bellinger as a priority targets puts immense pressure on both clubs to spend. |
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Boras’s public performance is a classic strategy to remind both New York teams that they are not just signing a player, but an “elite weapon” who will require a contract commensurate with his “Top Gun” status.
The Yankees are considered the current frontrunners to retain Bellinger. Would you like to check the latest buzz regarding the Yankees’ pursuit of Juan Soto to see if they are prioritizing him over Bellinger?
