Insider sheds light on Francisco Lindor's suitors

With the trade deadline approaching, the New York Mets are reportedly looking to offload several high-profile players. The team from the NL East is said to be considering offers for most of their roster.

According to MLB insider Chelsea Janes, a rival executive has indicated that the Mets are open to trading anyone except Carson Benge, A.J. Ewing, Christian Scott, Nolan McLean, and Juan Soto.

Francisco Lindor, a key player for the Mets, is also rumored to be among those potentially available for trade. When Sal Licata inquired about Lindor’s potential move, Janes expressed skepticism, suggesting it’s unlikely the veteran infielder will be traded.

“I think it’s possible, I don’t think it’s impossible,” Janes noted. “I have not heard anyone say, ‘No, we are definitely not trading Francisco Lindor.’ Steve Cohen said he doesn’t think he’s going anywhere and that is not the same thing. That being said, he’s an MVP-quality player making MVP-type money for the next five years and the Mets need talent in 2027.

They’re not just gonna give them away, so you need a team that is going to value him as an MVP and not see this as some kind of salary dump. It’s not a bad contract yet even though he hasn’t played great this year, you’re gonna have to get things for him, so you got a team that’s got money and a team that has talent to give for someone like him. They’re out there, but there’s not many of them.”

Lindor has faced injury challenges this season, recording five home runs and 12 RBIs with a batting line of .216/.298/.373 over 40 games. His contract still has five years and $155 million remaining, posing a significant challenge for teams interested in acquiring him.

Mets could trade several pitching pieces at trade deadline

Although a trade involving Francisco Lindor appears unlikely, the Mets might capitalize on the trade deadline by moving Luke Weaver, one of the league’s top relievers.

Chelsea Janes reports that the Mets could receive a substantial return for Weaver, who remains under team control through the next season. She identified Freddy Peralta and Clay Holmes as pitchers likely to attract interest from multiple teams.