MLB observers and enthusiasts took to social media on Thursday to weigh in on the blockbuster swap that sent Cleveland Indians All-Star shortstop Francisco Lindor and star pitcher Carlos Carrasco to the New York Mets.
The 27-year-old Lindor had long been considered a prime trade candidate, and the Mets a potential suitor to acquire him, but Thursday's deal appeared to materialize quickly, with few or no reports suggesting it was in the works in the preceding days.
Related
The seemingly out-of-nowhere trade left many stunned, while others marked the end of an era -- and others still marked the start of a new one.
Indians fans of course expressed understandable disappointment after losing a pair of familiar faces.
Cleveland GM Chris Antonetti said he and both players were "in tears" when he broke the news that they had been dealt.
Others noted the organization's recent teardown of a team that went as far as the World Series not too long ago.
At least one fan of an AL Central team was pleased to see the four-time All-Star out of the division.
While Rachel Luba, agent to star free-agent pitcher Trevor Bauer, was sure to take note.
National baseball analysts and journalists reponded with a range of reactions and reports.
Sources within the game appeared to be split over the Indians' return, reports suggested.
From the Mets' perspective, fans were predictably elated.
NFL Networker reporter Ian Rapoport, an avowed Mets fan, reacted to the big news during his weekly appearance with Moose & Maggie on WFAN.
Former players were pumped about the news, as well.
Others joked about Lindor's famously upbeat disposition.
Bob Klapisch of NJ.com said the deal further marked the Mets as a "growing force" as New York once again becomes a "two-team city."
MLB.com's Mark Feinsand suggested the Mets likely made the deal with a long-term extension in mind.
In terms of on-field impact, Howard Megdal of Forbes argued that the addition of Carrasco arguably addressed a more pressing need for the pitching-needy Mets.
Popular Mets blog Amazin' Avenue pointed out the magnitude of the deal for recently hired Mets GM Jared Porter.