Cespedes refuses to talk to media covering the New York Mets: “Not today, not tomorrow, not this year”

New York Mets, Yeonis Cespedes
Jul 20, 2018; Bronx, NY, USA; New York Mets designated hitter Yoenis Cespedes (52) adjusts his sunglasses during warms up before a game against the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

Yoenis Cespedes refused to talk to the journalists and sportswriters covering the New York Mets in Port St. Lucie. On Monday, Mike Puma of the New York Post, Tim Healey of Newsday and other outlets reported that they approached the Cuban outfielder to see if he had a few minutes to talk to the press.

Cespedes’ response to the approach: “Not today, not tomorrow, not at all this year.” According to Healey, he might want to talk to his fans.

When asked by the media about the reasons behind the unwillingness to talk, the player only answered: “Because I don’t want to.”

Cespedes has had quite the interesting last couple of years. He hasn’t played with the Mets since July 2018. He needed multiple heel surgeries, and last season, he was involved in a bizarre accident with a wild boar in his ranch that resulted in a fractured ankle. The outfielder missed the entire 2019 season, as well.

The Mets reduced his salary

He was slated to earn $29 million in 2020, but the New York Mets managed to amend the contract. Citing the injury in his ranch, the team will now pay Cespedes $6 million as a base salary. The number would go up to $11 million if he makes the opening day roster, and through bonuses, awards and incentives, it can reach north of $20 million.

Cespedes has uploaded a couple of videos of himself training in the offseason. He has been seen running, taking batting practice and doing agility and other drills. He is eager to show the world he is ready.

In fact, the plan was for Cespedes to be with the group as they performed their first full-squad workout on Monday.
Cespedes’ powerful bat can be a boost to the New York Mets’ lineup. He is capable of busting 30 homers and drive in close to 100 runs if healthy.

In his best season with the Mets, back in 2016, he was an All-Star and hit .280 with 31 home runs and 86 RBIs.

It is unclear if the Mets will fine him at some point if he continues to refuse to talk with the media. It is a possibility, though.