Overview
- Bellinger returns to the Bronx on a five-year, $162.5 million contract that includes opt-outs after 2027 and 2028, a $20 million signing bonus and a full no-trade clause.
- The Mets acquired Luis Robert Jr. from the White Sox for infielder Luisangel Acuña and right-hander Truman Pauley, with New York assuming Robert’s $20 million 2026 salary and his 2027 option/buyout terms.
- New York’s Robert move, coming days after signing Bo Bichette, filled the Mets’ center-field need and sharply reduced their pursuit of Bellinger.
- With top bats now placed, front offices are shifting resources toward rotation upgrades as luxury-tax considerations guide the next phase of the market.
- The Dodgers’ earlier four-year, $240 million deal for Kyle Tucker helped reset valuations and reinforced the trend toward high-AAV, opt-out-heavy contracts reflected in recent signings.