The New York Mets got rid of second baseman Jeff McNeilfor Cuban minor league right-hander Yordan Rodríguez, in a deal that left pitcher David Peterson as the player with the longest tenure on the team.
New York will send up to $7.75 million to the Athletics to offset part of the $17.75 million remaining on McNeil’s four-year, $50 million contract.
McNeil, who spent his entire career with the Mets, published a farewell letter to all New York fans and organization.
“New York will always be part of my story. The Mets organization is all I’ve known since I was drafted in 2013, and it’s been an incredible journey. I am incredibly grateful for every moment, every lesson, and every memory along the way.
I am especially grateful to the fans who welcomed me and my family and made New York feel like home for so long. Thank you to Steve and Alex Cohen, the coaching staff, and my teammates who made this journey so meaningful. 🍎🗽
With so much gratitude, it’s time to turn the page and embrace the next chapter in green and gold. 💚💛”, the player published on his networks.
Other key Mets departures
McNeil follows the departures of Pete Alonso, Brandon Nimmo and Edwin Diaz from the Mets, who failed to make the playoffs this year despite having the second-highest payroll, behind only the World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers.
McNeil, who will turn 34 in April, debuted with the Mets and won the National League batting title with a .326 average in 2022, when he was selected to his second All-Star team.. He batted .243 with 12 home runs and 54 RBIs in 122 games this year, making his season debut on April 25 after recovering from a right oblique strain.
He has a $15.75 million salary next year as part of a deal that includes a $15.75 million team option for 2027 with a $2 million buyout clause. The Mets will send the A’s $5.75 million with another $2 million payment included conditionally if McNeil’s option is declined.
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