The New York Mets didn’t acquire shortstop Francisco Lindor for a one-year experience.
So his comments about his contract status Monday in his introductory video conference had to be heartening to Mets brass, who dealt infielders Amed Rosario and Andres Gimenez, and a pair of prospects – right-hander Josh Wolf and outfielder Isaiah Greene — to Cleveland last week for Lindor and pitcher Carlos Carrasco.
Lindor can become a free agent after the 2021 season.
“I’m excited to be with the Mets organization,” said Lindor, 27. “I’m not against a long-term (contract). I’m not against it. It just has to make sense for both sides. … We’ll see what happens. I’m excited. Just like every fan out there, I’m extremely excited for this new chapter.”
Lindor, who’s arbitration eligible this offseason and is projected to make between $17.5 and $21.5 million in 2021, said he’s had introductory conversations with Mets owner Steve Cohen, president Sandy Alderson and general manager Jared Porter. But contract talks haven’t commenced.
If the Mets and Lindor agree to a new contract, it’ll probably come before the start of the regular season.
“I have never negotiated a contract during a season,” the four-time All-Star said. “Never. I’ve always said before spring training (I’ll talk), but once it gets to a point in spring training, it’s time to enjoy the ride and focus on winning and that’s the only thing I should be focusing on, not how much money I’m going to get.”
Lindor is a career .285 hitter, with an on-base average of .346 and a slugging percentage of .488. He posted 138 home runs and 411 RBI in 777 career games, all with Cleveland where he was also a two-time Golden Glove winner.
