MLB Trade Rumors: New York Mets' Jose Reyes Tells Fans He Wants to Stay

Jose Reyes' future with the New York Mets remains uncertain for 2012 and beyond. The All-Star shortstop is dealing with trade speculation and free agency rumors at every turn, but one thing has been constant: his passion and gratitude for the fans.

There have been homemade "Keep Jose" and "Don't Trade Reyes" banners and signs displayed across Citi Field for weeks now, and Reyes said their efforts have not gone unnoticed.

With seemingly endless energy and an infectious smile, the Dominican has become a fan favorite in Queens. Sure, the fact that he is hitting a league-best .338 with 13 triples and 56 runs in 72 games helps, but fans are doing all they can to urge Reyes to stay.

"I just want to say thank you for the support," Reyes told me Thursday when I asked him in front of his locker if he had a message for his fans. "Keep supporting me because, like I have said, I want to be here. I appreciate it from the fans because they want me here."

Set for a major financial windfall this offseason, Reyes will have no shortage of options. With the Yankees already ruling out a move for the shortstop, though, one thing is for certain. Reyes will never play in a bigger media market and he will never receive the same kind of support that comes from being a home-grown talent.

If Reyes is not moved before the July 31 deadline, his destination for next season will be cloudy until this winter. Mets fans can only hope that he decides to ply his trade in Flushing.

Related coverage:

• Jose Reyes doesn't care that New York Yankees don't want him
• Can the New York Mets find the money to re-sign Jose Reyes?

Ashley Marshall is a featured columnist for Bleacher Report. All quotes were obtained in person unless otherwise stated.