The New York Yankees and Chicago Cubs hit a snag in trade talks around first baseman Cody Bellinger, but the free agent market is looking costly too, according to new reports.On Sunday, Jon Heyman of the New York Post reported there is 'still a gap' in the discussions between the two teams around who will assume the final year of Bellinger's contract.Bellinger, 29, is two seasons removed from winning a Silver Slugger award in the outfield, but slumped a bit in 2024, slashing .266/.
He became a free agent after the season and is unlikely to return.More news: Hall of Famer Identifies Yankees' 'Number One' PriorityPete Alonso and Christian Walker were both extended qualifying offers, meaning that they will cost their next team draft-pick compensation if they do not re-sign with the New York Mets or Arizona Diamondbacks, respectively.Other free agent options at first base include Paul Goldschmidt, Josh Bell, Carlos Santana, and Justin Turner.