Could the Yankees’ starting catcher have caught wind of a major departure?
Austin Wells replied to Cody Bellinger’s latest Instagram post with a crying face emoji as rumors swirl about the star’s looming free agency decision.
The eight-picture post, which shows Bellinger working out, was the two-time All-Star’s first Instagram activity since he shared photos of himself exercising at the same facility in late November.
Bellinger and the Yankees remain in talks about a reunion, but the years offered remain a sticking point.
The Yankees have reportedly offered the 30-year-old outfielder/first baseman a deal worth $155 million over five years.
The Post’s Jon Heyman reported last week that the Yankees are willing to include multiple opt-outs to address Bellinger’s concerns about the contract length.
Bellinger is coming off a platform season entering free agency, slashing .272/.334/.480 with 29 home runs and 98 RBIs in 152 games with the Yankees.
Bellinger’s 5.1 WAR was his best mark since he notched a league-best 8.7 total during his NL MVP-winning campaign with the Dodgers in 2019.
After Bo Bichette signed with the Mets and Kyle Tucker joined the Dodgers on a historic deal, Bellinger remains the top available hitter on the market.
The Mets, Blue Jays and Giants figure to present the stiffest competition to the Yankees in retaining Bellinger – and fans pleaded with him to re-sign with the Bombers.
“Sign with the yankees bro i can’t take it anymore,” one poster wrote on Bellinger’s post.
“Announce you’re coming back to the Yanks, King,” another commenter wrote. “Need ya back in the BX!!”
“Please stay in NY,” another pleaded. “Look at all the love the fans have for you.”
Some, like Bellinger’s former Dodgers teammate Walker Buehler, focused less on his free agency and more on his physique.
“You’re so jacked!” Buehler commented.
