Mets Consider Trading Francisco Lindor This Winter, Not at the Trade Deadline

The Mets are reportedly considering trading Francisco Lindor this winter, not at the trade deadline. According to Bob Nightengale, rival executives believe that the Mets will trade their star shortstop in the off-season, not in August.

What happened?

Francisco Lindor has been one of the best shortstops in the National League since joining the Mets in 2021. However, his 2026 season has been marked by a slow start, which has seemingly had an impact on the team's performance. Despite this, Lindor remains a valuable asset to the Mets, with a full no-trade clause and a significant contract that will keep him with the team through 2027.

Why it matters for Francisco Lindor

Lindor's trade value remains high despite his slow start to the season. He is owed $160 million over the next five years, making him a highly sought-after player in the MLB. The Mets are likely to receive a significant return for Lindor in a trade, especially if they wait until the off-season to make a deal.

What comes next?

The Mets' decision to trade Lindor this winter will have significant implications for the team's future. With Lindor's contract set to expire in 2027, the team will need to decide whether to re-sign him or look for a younger replacement. The trade deadline is just around the corner, and the Mets will need to make a decision soon about what to do with their star shortstop.

The Padres are also reportedly looking to trade their closer, Mason Miller, at the trade deadline. Miller is under contract through 2029, but the 2027 season could be lost to a lockout, making him a valuable asset to trade now. The Padres are likely to demand at least one top-100 prospect in return for Miller, making him a highly sought-after player in the MLB.

The Astros could also enter the trade market for Tarik Skubal if the Tigers decide to sell. Skubal has been a key player for the Tigers this season, but the team may be willing to trade him if they are out of contention. The Astros could be a good fit for Skubal, who would provide a boost to their rotation.

In conclusion, the Mets are likely to trade Francisco Lindor this winter, not at the trade deadline, due to his full no-trade clause and significant contract. The team will need to decide whether to re-sign Lindor or look for a younger replacement, and the trade deadline is just around the corner.

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