The New York Mets are actively evaluating alternative offensive options as their pursuit of Cody Bellinger remains unresolved, with Austin Hays emerging as a notable fallback target. The situation is further complicated by the presence of the New York Yankees, whose rumored interest adds urgency to the Mets’ efforts to solidify their plans.
According to Jon Heyman on B/R Walk-Off, the length of Bellinger’s next contract remains the primary obstacle keeping a deal from materializing. “They’re currently looking for the years. Bellinger you would think could potentially get a seven-year deal, but he may have to settle for six,” Heyman said, highlighting why negotiations have stalled despite clear interest from multiple teams, including the Yankees.
Heyman added that New York is preparing contingencies if negotiations stall, pointing directly to another bat on the market. “They’re looking at Austin Hays. Bellinger would be the top choice; they just haven’t named the right number of years yet,” Heyman explained, as rumors continue to swirl about the Yankees’ presence.
How good and how expensive is Austin Hays?
As an eight-year MLB veteran, Hays is a viable option. His .262 batting average compares favorably in a head-to-head look against Bellinger. Last season, he played 103 games with the Reds, recording 101 hits, 15 home runs, and 64 RBIs. The first six and a half years of his career were spent with the Orioles.
| Austin Hays (Bats and throws right) | Cody Bellinger (Bats and throws left) |
| .262 career batting average | .261 career batting average |
| .266 average in 2025 | .272 average in 2025 |
| 10.5 career WAR | 30.5 career WAR |
Hays could be a relatively inexpensive addition for the Mets. He earned $5 million last season with Cincinnati, and his current market value is also pegged at $5 million per year by Spotrac, making him an affordable target for a team seeking experience and reliable production.
There hasn’t been nearly as much buzz around Hays as there has been around Bellinger, who has drawn interest from several clubs, including the Blue Jays, Phillies, Dodgers, Angels, and others. Even Scott Boras has said there are around eight teams interested in his client, who is seeking a sizable deal of at least five years.