The New York Mets acquired shortstop Francisco Lindor back in January, knowing that it would have taken a huge financial commitment to lock him up to a long-term contract. One day before Opening Day, however, both sides were able to hammer out a deal.
The Mets inked the All-Star infielder to a 10-year, $341 million contract extension that will kick in next year. That way, the organization has a new face for, at least, the next decade.
That face, however, wants a teammate to join him among Mets’ players who signed a contract extension in 2021. Outfielder Michael Conforto, like Lindor, has only one year remaining on his commitment with the team. But he hasn’t signed a long-term pact yet.
Will the Mets sign Conforto?
Lindor had told the Mets he wouldn’t negotiate during the regular season. Conforto preferred not to do that, but has been more open to talking even though the 2021 MLB campaign is already under way.
“He’s a good ball player. I told him ‘you’re a good ball player.’ He’s gonna put the numbers up,” Lindor told reporters via Zoom (link to SNY article.) “At the end of the year the numbers will be there no matter what, if he continues to stay healthy, the numbers will be there for sure.
“Enjoy this process, don’t worry about what’s gonna happen. He’s one of the leaders in the Mets organization, so he’s gonna get paid at some point. He’s gonna get what he desires and what he deserves and what God has for him.
“Enjoy every single day. We’re early in the season — there’s a lot of things that can happen. Looking forward to the day he actually — God willing he does sign here, I can say he’s gonna be a teammate of mine for a very long time.”
Before the Mets game on Tuesday, Conforto was mired in an ugly slump. He is hitting .143/.250/.190 with no home runs or RBI.