The New York Mets are among the teams reportedly interested in signing Cody Bellinger, but he remains the New York Yankees’ No. 1 target, according to The Athletic’s Chris Kirschner.
The Yankees have not made a major move yet, but that means they have money to spend on Bellinger. The Mets need to have a backup plan if they cannot land the former MVP. Could David Stearns poach an outfielder from the Milwaukee Brewers, his former team?
The Brewers have Sal Frelick and Jackson Chourio as locks in the outfield. Christian Yelich was primarily a designated hitter, but the Brewers could want him playing more left field next year. They also have Blake Perkins, who is not a great hitter but a phenomenal defender. Jake Bauers can also play in the outfield when needed. However, the player the Mets should target is Garrett Mitchell.
Prediction: Mets trade for Garrett Mitchell after Cody Bellinger decides to stay with the Yankees.
Stearns was the Brewers’ general manager when they drafted Mitchell with the 20th pick in the 2020 MLB Draft. Mitchell is a five-tool player, but injuries have been a huge concern. However, when healthy, he can be a game-changer. He has played just 141 games in his career.
Shoulder, oblique and finger injuries have derailed his career, but he could get back on track if he simply stays on the field. The 69 games he played in 2024 were the most he has ever played in a season. That year, he had eight home runs, 11 stolen bases and an .812 OPS.
The Brewers have outfield depth and are always in the market for prospects. Mitchell is 27 and under club control through 2028. They may be willing to part with him for an outfield prospect. The best outfielder in the Brewers farm system right now is Braylon Payne, who is still in Single A. They only have four outfielders in their top 30 prospects on MLB Pipeline.
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