Sal is starting to accept that the Mets are likely done adding pieces to the 2024 roster, and they will enter Opening Day with a team with middling expectations after a disastrous 2023 showing.
But, if he could ask for one more transaction, it wouldn’t be to add. It would be to depart with a recently signed player who is not far removed from a batting title in New York.
“If I had one more move left…it would be to rid themselves of Jeff McNeil,” Sal said. “I think it’s the easiest move to shake up the core of this team.
“Maybe you get something back, maybe you don’t. Maybe you shed yourself of that money and can bring in a DH. That, to me, would at least be a sign that they’re starting to change the core a little bit.”
BT was surprised at Sal’s level of willingness to part with McNeil, but Sal doesn’t see the value, or the makeup, that suggests McNeil would be part of the Mets’ long-term solution.
“I think he’s part of a losing culture, and he doesn’t provide enough for me,” Sal said. “He’s a gamer, but he’s also selfish. He’s always frustrated any time he doesn’t get a hit. If he’s not batting .330, what does he provide you?”