The clock is ticking for the Mets to nail down an extension with Francisco Lindor.
The team’s new superstar shortstop recently reinforced his comments that he would not continue negotiations into the regular season, which is now less than two weeks away, and instead would opt for free agency. If the two sides don’t make up ground quickly, that is likely where this is headed.
According to SNY’s Andy Martino, the Mets have made an opening offer to Lindor, reportedly slightly less than $300 million, while Lindor’s camp countered with a contract that was “well over” $300 million.
Cleveland attempted to keep Lindor before he was traded, offering an extenstion below that $300 million mark, which Lindor declined. The four-time All-Star is looking to capitalize on his stardom, especially after seeing fellow shortstop Fernando Tatis Jr. get $340 million from the Padres this offseason.
The Mets have been open about their desire to keep Lindor for the long haul, and per Martino, are willing to go to $300 million to keep him. The question would then be Lindor’s mindset, and just how much more was his counter offer to the Mets.
Lindor has been firm on his stance to stop negotiations when the season starts, while the Mets hope that timeline can be stretched if progress is made toward a deal. But as Lindor confirmed earlier this week, the two sides are talking.
The Mets have another soon-to-be free agent in Michael Conforto, and Martino reports that the team has made an opening offer to him as well, but “no deal is close.”
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