Keith: Francisco Lindor is worth 'every penny' of Mets contract

Francisco Lindor has continued his resurgent season, posting a .953 OPS during the month of August after hitting two more home runs on Saturday, including a grand slam, in a big win over the Padres.

Lindor has thrust himself firmly into the MVP conversation, likely only being rivaled by Shohei Ohtani at this point in the season. His slow start to the season is a distant memory, and Keith McPherson says the star shortstop's record contract is well worth it despite the amount being criticized by many fans in recent years.

"Make the respect as loud or louder as the disrespect," Keith said. "Myself included.

"He's worth every penny. He's carrying the team at times. His moxie, his aura, his swag...he's competing at a high level when the lights are shining the brightest."

Lindor, since being moved to the leadoff spot in the Mets lineup, has been one of the best in baseball including his standout defense at shortstop, and Keith says Lindor is absolutely in the discussion to become the first Mets player to win an MVP award.

"Lindor is the leader of the team," Keith said. "He's the MVP of the team and definitely in the MVP conversation.

"When you look at this Mets team, where they started off and where they are now, Francisco Lindor is the main catalyst."