The New York Mets traded Jeff McNeil to the Athletics on Monday in exchange for teenage pitching prospect Yordan Rodriguez.
The Mets kicked in $5.75 million to offset his salary and will kick in $2 million for the buyout if his 2027 option is not exercised.
McNeil was a homegrown Met. He signed after they drafted him in the 12th round of the 2013 MLB Draft, and president of baseball operations David Stearns spoke on McNeil after dealing the franchise mainstay.
“I want to thank Jeff for his time and contributions to the organization,” president of baseball operations David Stearns said in a statement, per MLB.com’s Anthony DiComo. “He was drafted by the team and grew up in our system. I wish Jeff and his family success and good luck going forward. We are excited to bring Yordan into our system. He is a young right-hander with a promising future.”
Trading McNeil was not a complete shocker. When the Mets acquired Marcus Semien from the Texas Rangers, McNeil became expendable. Sure, he could play in the outfield, but the Mets seemingly were ready to move on. Stearns has continued to shape the team in his image since taking over.
Only two Mets who were signed in free agency or extended prior to Stearns taking over remain on the team: Francisco Lindor and Kodai Senga. Senga’s name has popped up in trade rumors this offseason, and he could be gone by the time the season rolls around.
The Mets have lost Pete Alonso and Edwin Díaz in free agency, and they have traded away Brandon Nimmo and McNeil. Stearns has work to do to fill holes on the roster if the Mets want to contend next season. Their additions of Semien, Luke Weaver, Devin Williams and Jorge Polanco are a good start, but they may need to take a big swing soon.
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