The Mets' potential trade of Francisco Lindor is a topic that has sparked curiosity and speculation in recent weeks. While the idea of trading Lindor has gained some public traction, it is highly unlikely to happen. The primary reasons for this are multifaceted and involve a combination of factors related to team dynamics, player performance, and the practical challenges of dealing with large contracts.
One of the main misconceptions about the Lindor trade is the reported discord between Lindor and Soto. Reports of friction between the two stars appear overblown. Both players have recently stated that their relationship is fine, and multiple Mets insiders have corroborated this view. Despite any past disagreements, both players recognize the potential benefits of forming a better team together.
Lindor's production has indeed dipped, partly due to multiple medical issues. He has endured an elbow debridement procedure, a hamate operation, and a strained right calf. Since returning from his latest injury in mid-June, Lindor has been inconsistent, batting .211 with four home runs in 19 games and committing five errors in 18 games at shortstop. However, he did reach base five times on Sunday, which could be a turning point in his season.
Large contracts are unwieldy to deal with, especially in the middle of a season when many teams are at or near their payroll budgets. Notable examples include the Red Sox trading Mookie Betts and David Price to the Dodgers with $123 million left on their contracts in 2020, and the Marlins dealing Giancarlo Stanton to the Yankees with $295 million remaining on his deal in 2017. These trades saved significant money but resulted in underwhelming prospect packages.
Lindor's contract is a significant factor. After this season, he will be halfway through his five-year, $170.5 million mega-contract. He holds a full no-trade clause and will turn 33 in November. The Mets, under Steve Cohen, have never been interested in shedding salary simply for the sake of saving money. Trading Lindor would be almost impossible, as the team would need a full-scale rebuild, which they are not pursuing.
Without Lindor, the Mets could shift Bo Bichette back to shortstop, but this would leave them vulnerable if Bichette opts out of his contract this winter. They would also be heavily reliant on the inconsistent Brett Baty as an everyday third baseman. The shortstops available in free agency this winter are primarily 30-something backups, and the Mets' internal prospects, such as Ronny Mauricio and Elian Peña, are not yet ready for prime time.
From a broader perspective, Lindor ranks second behind Bobby Witt Jr. in WAR since 2022. He is an irreplaceable player, and his absence would leave a significant void in the team's lineup. The Mets' officials, including Cohen, have expressed confidence in both Lindor and Soto, stating that they are thrilled to have such high-quality players on the team.
In conclusion, while the idea of trading Lindor has gained some traction, it is highly unlikely to happen. The Mets' management and players have a positive relationship, and Lindor's performance, despite recent dips, does not warrant a trade. The practical challenges of dealing with large contracts and the team's internal prospects make a trade impractical. The Mets are likely to keep Lindor, recognizing the value he brings to the team both on and off the field.
