The New York Mets’ season ended poorly as they failed to qualify for the playoffs. The squad now confronts difficult roster selections.
The Mets’ hefty salary proved insufficient to carry the club into October. The Mets are expected to have one of the biggest payrolls in baseball again this season, but they may attempt to reduce it. If they want to sign Pete Alonso to a long-term deal, some other players may have to leave.
The Mets may consider trading certain players in an effort to reduce their salary. Mets source Tim Britton indicated Jeff McNeil would be a trade possibility.
“McNeil is owed $15.75 million this upcoming season, with a club option for $15.75 million again in 2027 (with a $2 million buyout),” writes Britton for The Athletic. “Here, the structure of his contract reduces his trading worth. McNeil only counts $12.5 million against the Mets for luxury-tax purposes, but he would include $15.75 million for any acquiring team. Coming off a strong rebound season, McNeil should have some trade value, but the majority of it will be in getting out from under the deal.”
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McNeil has been with the Mets for eight years. He’s a two-time All-Star and batting champion. He struggled previous season, but this year he has improved. He improved his OPS from.692 to.746 this season and appeared in 122 games.
He’s a versatile defender with a strong bat. Many teams might be interested in him if the Mets make him available. Teams may not have to give up much to obtain him, as he is effectively a payroll dump.
Losing McNeil would be devastating to the Mets supporters. However, the transfer may provide opportunities for some younger players to take on larger roles and build a name for themselves.