New York Mets new superstar Francisco Lindor was acquired last week from the Cleveland Indians in a blockbuster trade that immediately positioned the Mets as a powerhouse in the National League.
Now, the pressure is on for the Mets to lock up Lindor, who is set to hit free agency following the 2021 season, to a long-term deal.
Lindor, 27, is certainly open to such a deal with his new team.
“To all of those fans out there, I live life day by day” Lindor said, according to ESPN’s David Schoenfield.
“I’m extremely happy and excited about what’s happening right now, but I haven’t really sat down and talked to anybody,” Lindor said. “Yeah, I had the welcoming conversations and I can’t wait. I’ve never been against an extension. I’ve never been against signing long-term. I’m sure my agent along with the Mets group, they’ll have conversations.”
Talks have already taken place, and if a deal is to get completed, the clock is ticking as an extension will likely need to be done before Opening Day.
“I have never negotiated a contract during a season,” Lindor said. “Never. I’ve always said before spring training, but once it gets to a point in spring training, it’s time to enjoy the ride and focus on winning and that’s the only thing I should be focusing on, not how much money I’m going to get.”
Lindor saw how the Los Angeles Dodgers worked out a lucrative long-term extension with Mookie Betts after they acquired him from the Boston Red Sox prior to last season.
“Mookie fell into a great situation and felt comfortable with the L.A. Dodgers and made a decision that was best for him and his family,” Lindor said. “Like I said, I’m not against a long-term [contract]. It just has to make sense for both sides. We’ll see what happens.”
Lindor knows that playing in New York comes with a lot of pressure, but he says he is ready for the challenge.
“They say there is a lot of pressure in New York,” Lindor said. “It’s a big market, there are lot of people on top of you. But I’m blessed to play the game. I’m Francisco Lindor. I’m going to do me, and hopefully people like that. Hopefully people embrace me. I’ll embrace them.”
