The New York Mets are not yet finished in their quest to re-sign outfielder Yoenis Cespedes. Rumors suggest the two sides are discussing a short-term contract with an opt-out clause that would likely be of interest to both parties.
ESPN's Buster Olney is reporting the Mets and Cespedes are talking about a three-year deal with an opt-out clause after the first year, which would allow the slugger to hit free agency after the 2016 season and perhaps help him ultimately to fetch the lucrative long-term contract he's been hoping for. Additionally, the Mets wouldn't be on the hook for more than three years, and might even only be responsible for one year depending on how Cespedes performs.
Previous rumors indicated Cespedes was not open to accepting a short-term deal, as he was seeking a six-year pact, but the largest reported offer he's had this offseason is a five-year contract (believed to be) in the $100 million range from the Washington Nationals.
At this point it seems like the sweepstakes come down to New York and Washington, and Olney notes Cespedes could "make his choice in the next 24 to 48 hours."
Last night FOX Sports' Ken Rosenthal reported that Cespedes "prefers to stay with the Mets," but the team has yet to make a formal offer. He also mentioned the "possibility still exists that other teams are involved," as it was previously reported the Chicago White Sox, San Diego Padres, Texas Rangers and Houston Astros were also keeping an eye on Cespedes.
Whatever the case, it's certainly good news for the Mets that Cespedes wants to be in New York because all along many believed he would accept the best offer presented to him. However, the Mets are reportedly unwilling to go beyond a three-year deal for the slugger, but the talk of an opt-out clause after the first season certainly makes the discussion more intriguing.
There was previous talk that it might be best for some of this year's free agents to accept a one-year deal and then test free agency after the 2016 season due to the lack of talent among those expected to hit the open market next offseason. There were so many high-profile free agents available after 2015 and pundits believed there may have not been enough money to go around to pay all of the players seeking big contracts.
Well, that notion was refuted time and time again, especially after Justin Upton signed with the Tigers for $132.75 million. Now Cespedes is up next, but he's torn between a big offer and where he prefers to be.