Francisco Lindor, Mets to Discuss New Contract in Coming Weeks, Alderson Says

Francisco Lindor only has one season remaining on his current contract, but the New York Mets will reportedly discuss a possible long-term extension with the shortstop within the next few weeks, per Bob Nightengale of USA Today.  

The Mets acquired Lindor along with pitcher Carlos Carrasco in a trade with Cleveland on Thursday, giving up Amed Rosario, Andres Gimenez and two minor leaguers.

Though the potential Lindor could leave in free agency next offseason is a concern, Mets president Sandy Alderson explained his view of the trade:

Alderson said the team is "comfortable" with the short-term control of the two players acquired.

The Mets would still love to retain the 27-year-old who has been one of the best players in the majors at his position.

Lindor had four straight All-Star selections from 2016-19, adding two Gold Glove awards and two Silver Slugger awards in that stretch. He was an MVP candidate nearly each season thanks to his ability to impact the game in a variety of areas.

Even with a down 2020 season in which he hit .258 with eight home runs in 60 games, there are still high expectations for the superstar going into next year.

He could have a similar impact as Mookie Betts, who was traded from the Boston Red Sox to the Los Angeles Dodgers last offseason before playing a role in the team's run to the World Series title. Betts was also going into the final year of his contract but agreed to a 12-year extension with Los Angeles in July.

The Mets could employ a similar strategy to prevent Lindor from hitting the open market one year after giving up four young players in a trade.

The shortstop is set to make $19.5 million in 2021. A new deal will likely pay him much more annually, but New York could be aggressive to lock him down for an extended stretch.