Francisco Lindor trade looms as Carlos Beltrán eyes Mets reset

Carlos Beltrán will take over as New York Mets manager this winter, but his first big move may be cleaning up the Francisco Lindor problem.

The Mets face a steep climb back to contention, and Francisco Lindor’s struggles are at the center of the mess. After a devastating collapse last season, Lindor’s leadership and on-field performance have drawn heavy criticism. Owner Steve Cohen shut down Lindor’s captaincy bid, and fans have turned decisively against him. Even with five years and $162 million left on his deal, Lindor’s future in Queens looks shaky.

Beltrán, a future Hall of Famer set to be inducted later this month, inherits a roster in free fall. The Mets’ big-money additions have underperformed, and Lindor’s strained relationship with Juan Soto-once toxic-has improved, but that may not be enough. Cohen confirmed the two are getting along better, yet the team still needs a full reset. With the Braves and Phillies pushing hard in the NL East, keeping Lindor and Soto together carries major risks.

Lindor’s no-trade clause expires with his contract, meaning he could approve a move if he chooses. The Mets’ best path may be trading him to clear cap space and rebuild around Soto and younger stars. The Marlins’ recent rise shows how young talent can flip a franchise, and the Mets need that kind of spark. Beltrán’s first big test will be convincing Lindor to waive his no-trade clause-or finding a team willing to meet his demands.

History suggests it’s unlikely. The Mets’ fanbase has soured on Lindor, and turning that around is brutal. Even if Lindor’s stats stay solid, the optics of his tenure-from the 2021 thumbs-down incident to his Knicks playoff absences-have done lasting damage. Beltrán must decide: rebuild with Lindor or move on before the 2026 season.