All-Star second baseman Javier Baez might stay in New York even if he doesn’t re-sign with the Mets in the offseason. According to MLB Insider Andy Martino, the Mets’ crosstown rivals, the Yankees, are monitoring Baez’s situation and are expected to make a move for him if he hits free agency.
The Yankees’ interest isn’t anything new as the team wanted to acquire Baez when the Chicago Cubs made him available ahead of the trade deadline. They were reportedly “one of the most aggressive teams” in trade talks with the Cubs, but Chicago ended up liking the Mets’ offer more.
It makes sense for the Yankees to pursue Baez, as they need a reliable shortstop after their experiment with Gleyber Torres at the position didn’t pan out. While he was a second baseman for the Mets, batting .299 with nine homers and 22 RBIs in 2021, Baez played SS for the better part of his career, and it is the position where he can make the most impact.
The Mets are expected to make a strong push to keep Baez, especially since he put together a great campaign since arriving in July. The 28-year-old also wouldn’t mind extending his stay with the organization, considering he enjoyed his time as a Mets player and has a chance to play alongside his friend and fellow All-Star Francisco Lindor.
It remains to be seen whether the Mets are ready to put their money on the table and open the negotiations with a strong offer. If they do, Baez will reportedly ink the deal and won’t look elsewhere. But if they come to bargain, that might open the door for other teams, including the Yankees.
