Dec. 9: Talks between the Mets and McCann have recently gained further momentum, per Martino.
Dec. 4: While the Mets have stepped up their efforts on the McCann front, there were still multiple other clubs negotiating with his camp as of last night, Jon Morosi reported on MLB Network this morning (video link).
Dec. 3, 12:44pm: While talks are ongoing, the two sides are not yet close to finalizing a deal, tweets Martino.
12:31pm: The Mets are in “active talks” with McCann, tweets Fansided’s Robert Murray, who adds that a four-year deal indeed looks possible. MLB Network’s Jon Heyman tweets that the Mets are making a “serious push” to land the former White Sox backstop.
12:28pm: While the Mets have been linked to J.T. Realmuto ever since news of Steve Cohen’s purchase of the franchise broke, reports surrounding the team’s pursuit of a catcher have pointed in other directions early in the offseason. SNY’s Andy Martino reported recently that James McCann was more firmly in the team’s crosshairs, and Joel Sherman of the New York Post now suggests the same, citing executives from two other teams involved in the free-agent catching market who believe the Mets’ pursuit of McCann is “intensifying.”
Certainly that doesn’t mean that a deal is close to fruition, and it’s eminently possible that McCann’s reps are broadcasting confidence to other clubs that does not quite align with New York’s actual level of aggression. Still, it’s worth noting that one of the execs to whom Sherman spoke suggested McCann could even command a four-year deal given the early activity on the second-tier market for catchers.
A four-year pact would be a surprise for even the most bullish projections. We oscillated between a two- and three-year deal for McCann when discussing predictions for our Top 50 Free Agent rankings, with majority ultimately leading to two-year prediction. Four years was never a real consideration. McCann’s 2019-20 run with the White Sox was quite strong, as he made considerable gains in his production at the plate (.276/.334/.474), the underlying metrics behind that output (career-high hard-hit rate, exit velocity, barrel rate) and in terms of his ability to frame pitches — particularly his ability to gain strike calls at the bottom of the zone. However, his 2018 season in Detroit led to a non-tender, and as good as he’s been with the South Siders across the past two seasons, it’s a sample size of 587 plate appearances.
If the Mets do indeed prefer a smaller-scale deal with McCann to the likely $100MM+ contract that Realmuto will command at some point this offseason, they’d have ample resources left to pursue other big-ticket items — be it free-agent pursuits of George Springer, Trevor Bauer and/or DJ LeMahieu or trade negotiations for a prominent name (Cleveland’s Francisco Lindor, Colorado’s Nolan Arenado, Chicago’s Kris Bryant, etc.). They’ve already crossed one item off their shopping list, having introduced righty Trevor May on a new two-year contract this afternoon.
Whether a deal ultimately comes together remains to be seen, though if the early weeks of the offseason have told us anything, it’s that if the reports on their increased interest in McCann aren’t accurate, Cohen himself may just make that known to the world on Twitter.
FredMcGriff for the HOF
Wow. I figured the Mets would go big and get Realmuto.
mlb1225
Maybe they plan on going big on pitching, signing like Bauer and Odorizzi/Tanaka.
NYYstateofmind
Maybe it’s all a smokescreen & they don’t plan on going big at all. I mean we are talking about the Mets, right?
manhattanmetsfan
that meant something when the Wilpons owned the team. There isn’t anything particular about the name New York Mets that forces them to operate a certain way
lolzmets
Why do you keep posting the same comment on every mutts article? You know we already read this. Please come up with a new idea, it’s not that hard.
iamhector24
Why do you love the Mets so much that you mock them in your display name? Sounds like a fan to me.
RunDMC
I wouldn’t doubt a plan for McCann, Bauer, Springer Jr., while possibly a shorter option to Kluber. Imagine a rotation of deGrom, Bauer, Stroman, David Petersen, Corey Kluber. With Springer Jr. they could use that addt OF to trade to shore up another area, if they wanted. Their offense was good last year, but with Springer Jr. and McCann anywhere close to what he has been, they could contend.
MarlinsFanBase
Uh, I guess you don’t realize that you won’t be getting the Kluber of a few years ago. See 2002 Mets for an example.
Confortoismyspiritanimal
Go big on Odorizzi? He ain’t good.
Stevil
Bauer might be on the cusp of signing with the Angels.
Angels & NL West
Regarding Bauer and the Angels, that’s great news. Where did you hear/read it?
Philliesfan4life
I believe he will sign with the angels, he’s from souther california. It’s either Angels or Padres
abcrazy4dodgers
Andrew Friedman may trip over the coffee table and actually (whoops) press the “Sign Bauer Button” too, so limiting it to two SoCal clubs isn’t a foregone conclusion. Actually, the Bauer/”Ray Chalupa” team could blow alot of minds and sign just about anywhere. Their intrigue of not showing their hand (by showing a lot of smokescreen hands) is actually quite entertaining.
Stevil
No guarantees, just an interesting tweet (from him) that suggested there were negotiations.
jimthegoat
And Patrick Corbin will sign with the Yankees cuz he’s from NY. And Zack Wheeler will sign with the Braves cuz he’s from Georgia. And Gerrit Cole will sign with the Angels cuz he’s from OC. And Stephen Strasburg will sign with the Padres cuz he’s from San Diego. Oh wait…
Francys01
I like that the Mets sign McCann. This would means that the Phillies would have a higher chance to sign Realmuto.
Phantom X
I don’t think Philly will resign him. I’d be shocked, actually. That ship sailed when Klentak wouldn’t give him an extension. I feel we’re going to be terrible for a while longer.
VonPurpleHayes
Based on Middleton’s comments, I feel the same way, but I disagree with the Klentak part. JT always wanted to test free agency. It would’ve taken a ridiculous offer to convince him otherwise. So I don’t blame the Phillies for not extending him earlier. The trade in the first place was dumb though.
HalfBaked McBride
I don’t begrudge ANY player in ANY sport going for that big guaranteed money…I’m a teacher, if some other county came calling and offered me a ton of dough? I would leave in a hot second. Athletes have a small window to make what they can, and in JTR’s case? This is money that can change the trajectory of his entire family for generations to come….go get it, JT!!
That being said, I do hope the Phils find a way to release the pursestrings, but I’m not holding my breath.
jimthegoat
Ludicrous to say that Klentak “wouldn’t give JT an extension.” He expressed interest in doing that multiple times. But evidently they weren’t close on the dollar figure.
VonPurpleHayes
Yea. We can blame the FO on the trade, but the lack of extension is JT’s choice.
jimthegoat
@VonPurpleHayes I’ve said it before, I’ll say it again. Klentak should have made the trade contingent on an extension. If a move only makes sense in your mind if the player signs an extension, extend the player before the move is finalized, not after.
lolzmets
You know it doesn’t work that way.
Dogbone
Mets have no chance of signing McCann, because of course (lol), Reinsdorf will offer McCann sooooo much money, he will sign with the W Sox.
And then according to Sox fans, there will be a long line of teams that just can’t wait to offer pitching – for the right to pay Grandal $18/M a year, for 3 more years.
Dream on, W Sox fans.
hyraxwithaflamethrower
Did you really just pre-emptively troll White Sox fans? I don’t think anyone mentioned this in this thread.
As for Grandal, he’s still the 2nd-best C in the game. I doubt McCann repeats his 2020. Teams wouldn’t sell the farm to get him, but it’s not like he has absolutely no trade value. It’ll depend on what JTR gets.
Dogbone
@hyrax: If, as you say, Grandal is ‘still the second best catcher in the game’, why wouldn’t teams ‘sell the farm’, to get him? Grandal is a defensive liability. That’s why McCann caught about half the games last year- and was behind the plate for most of the important ones.
hyraxwithaflamethrower
He’s had a negative dWAR in just 2 of his 9 seasons. He’s been at or above average in CS% every year since 2015. He has a career DRS of 75 at C and everyone knows he’s an elite pitch-framer. He’s never won a gold glove, but “defensive liability” just isn’t true.
As for teams not selling the farm, they might if it weren’t a down year. We’ve already seen Hand let go because the Indians (and everyone else) declined to pay him $10M/yr. His value is depressed this year, but his contract isn’t. He’s still valuable. Not that it matters, though, since the Sox don’t seem to be making a concerted effort to sign McCann and trade Grandal.
Oddvark
I’ll grant you that Grandal is below average when it comes to allowing past balls/preventing wild pitches. But he is decent at controlling base runners and very good at pitch framing. It is simply untrue to call him a defensive liability.
And the reason that McCann caught so many games was more so because the White Sox lineup was at its best when both McCann and Grandal were in it (mostly because Encarnacion sucked in 2020). And with both of them in the lineup, it made sense to split the catching duties to minimize wear-and-tear on both players (not to mention the fact that Grandal could also play 1B on occasion, while McCann was limited to catching or DH).
BeeVeeTee
You must excuse Dogbone and his Dogbone comment s since he has a very low IQ.
Dogbone
@hyrax: Sox aren’t making a ‘concerted effort to trade Grandal’ – for the obvious reason – because no team wants to give the Sox anything for Grandal. Who in their right mind would pay him $18/M a year, for 3 more years.
SalaryCapMyth
Every top free agent is still on the board.
realsox
Stop this now. The Sox should sign McCann to a 2-3 year deal and trade Grandal for pitching.
a username
Realmuto is to old for a catcher who wants 200 mil also they could get other pitchers like Odorizzi Kluber or Paxton and then another reliever
Dorothy_Mantooth
I don’t think he’s looking for $200M. His goal is probably $100M but he might struggle to find that in this economy. He’ll probably get 4/$90M with a team option that could put the total value over the $100M mark but I’d be surprised if he gets $100M fully guaranteed.
Brac2brac
@dorothy
Your numbers for JTR sound about right – 4 to 5 years at ~ $22 AAV (max). Only Cohen could push that up and I doubt he’s that infatuated.
Years 4 and 5 could be pretty awful if he’s still trying to catch a significant amount of games and the contract is a nightmare if he needs hip surgery years 1 or 2. Think Cespides awful..
lolzmets
You don’t have any way of knowing any of that.
cheesesteak
And for 25 mil a season the player needs to be a game-changer, regardless of position. JTR is a quality player, he’s just not on that next level.
OilCanLloyd
He’s the best player at his position. And he moves the needle more than you give them credit for.
balloonknots
Spending at catcher position rarely a good investment. Teams are better off long term just getting a quality framer and using the money elsewhere.
NYYstateofmind
This is about as big as the Mets get
hyraxwithaflamethrower
I think McCann will provide better value than JTR. I’m a little surprised that four years is on the table. I’d have guessed three. As a White Sox fan, however, I’m really happy for McCann. He’s definitely earned the chance to be the starter for a good team.
ChiSox_Fan
Yep, “McCannon” deserves it, but I think his agent is bluffing about that 4th year. Basically telling the other potential suitors to “go big or go home”!!
VegasSDfan
Likely, 3 years with an option.
DarkSide830
shouldve picked them over LAA in the contest. something about them dealing for Contreras really made sense for me.
hyraxwithaflamethrower
I had the Mets getting JTR, don’t remember who I picked to get McCann.
Brac2brac
@flamethrower
Cohen doesn’t want to give up the compensation tied to QO players. NYM need C, CF abd SP. they are loath to sign two QO players and won’t sign three. IMO they want Springer as the QO player and if the Bauer deal is really good they’d sign him too. SP has other FA options with CF not so much.
hyraxwithaflamethrower
If the Mets were going to give up a QO, I think they’d best be served by getting Bauer. There’s a definite need for Springer, no doubt, but another front-line pitcher for the postseason is more likely to put a team over the top than a star CF. This is, of course, dependent on whether Bauer will sign for more than one year. If he won’t, then Springer’s relative value naturally goes up.
Brac2brac
@flamethrower
Well reasoned and I understand your points. I think that Bauer has more volatility than Springer – meaning that he has had a limited number of very good or better seasons and if the multiyear deal is for 6+ years at a high AAV, then I believe that the first year of the Cohen Era will not take that overall risk on Bauer. He’s not Cole, Grenke etc. Cohen will, in the first year, build a broader base with 3 to 5 signings to spread the risk. Think ‘ SP, SP, C,CF,RP. Additionally, if one player were to be said to have a higher floor based on performance to date, potential injury, contract length, age and overall financial commitment then Springer gets the nod.
Now if Bauer does a 5 year deal (reasonable AAV) and Springer also is only available on a 5 year deal then Bauer is very interesting and you go looking for Snell plus a CF or mashing bat in OF or 3B.
Rangers29
DO IT!!! LGM
I need to find where I said that I think the Mets should sign Mccann instead of Realmuto because he’ll have better value. I want to find that quote so bad…
windmill_noise_causes_cancer
Easy, Nostradamus…
ohyeadam
I recall you saying that the other day
metfan4ever
I think he’s a better value than JT. J.T. never made a pitcher better. Wheeler, No la, are good but he hasn’t made them better. White Sox pitchers have progressed each year. Look at St Lou, when Yader was younger, St Lou had a pitcher in the cy young running.
VonPurpleHayes
Interesting comments about making pitchers better. I certainly think Realmuto made Wheeler better. Wheeler looked like a completely different pitcher in 2020, focusing on contact, and double plays…etc. But, a lot of that could have been pitching coaches.
That being said, not a single arm in the Phillies bullpen showed any kind of improvement at any point.
metfan4ever
you mean Wheeler who won 9 games in a row as a Met. how did he make him better. I was not a completely pitcher,
VonPurpleHayes
Wheeler became more of a ground ball pitcher for the Phillies; inducing double plays…etc. I’m not saying he wasn’t good for the Mets. He just completely changed up his game in 2020, perhaps adjusting to the smaller home stadium.
Chev Chelios
It’s happening dude. McCann to the Mets makes all the sense plus it will be fun. If the Yanks just sit tight with Sanchez and Higashioka as their backstops I’m gonna laugh. I know they were in touch with Molina but the idea that the roll with Sanchez as a catcher is hilarious. Mets could take the lead as the top MLB team soon.
dirtbagfreitas
I’m going to guess 4/70.
findingnimmo
That’s fair. 4/60 even.
dirtbagfreitas
60 was my initial thinking based off the years but I could see the Mets offering a little more to make sure they get McCann so I bumped it up.
angt222
Reports are saying it’s looking like 4/$36M for McCann.
metsfan1992
Thats not a bad price
Sideline Redwine
Based off what? One good fifty-game season? Has two seasons w ops+ over 100 (2019 was 108, not great), never known as a great defensive catcher, and you want to pay him seventy million??? Thank goodness you are not a gm–you’d last about one transaction. People on here are delusional about McCann, it’s rather funny.
stymeedone
The only area.that McCann has ever been rated below average is the ridiculous pitch framing (which shows more consistency by umpire than catcher)! He calls a good game, has a solid arm, and is excellent at blocking balls in the dirt.
bigjonempire
108 is great for a catcher and his defense has improved.
Ma4170
If McCann gets 4/60 I’ll eat my hat… I’m thinking 4/52 is prob the ceiling and more likely 3/42 w 4th year club option… based on all my years as a GM :/
angt222
At this point, any post stating Mets are in “active talks” with a player, in going to assume it’s a pretty strong probably they sign the player.
busmannyc
♂️ 4yrs!!!
I would rather trade for Austin Hedges
Mrtwotone
Right? Austin hedges is a great defensive catcher. I wouldn’t mind if the braves got him to backup up d`Arnoud if they don’t use Contreras is a back up.
rct
Trade what? The farm is depleted. There’s no reason to trade any assets for a guy like Hedges, who is not particularly good, when you can sign a much better catcher and have it cost nothing but Steve Cohen’s money.
TradeAcuna
So far Cohen and AA are the same. All talk, no substance. They talk big, but end up with mid level pieces!
Get Off My Mound
Dude has literally only been the official majority owner for a month. Chill.
DTDATL
You have got to be the worst commenter on here, awful take after awful take and no substance
RunDMC
HAHA! As AA is notorious for not having leaks come out of his front office until they’re complete, driving people mad.
Up until now, Cohen and AA are the exact opposite. Cohen wins at interviews. AA signs guys, accounting for much of the offseason activity thusfar. Go deeper, GagReflex.
MetsFan22
Lol the spending Cohen will make for years to come will make the Braves look poor.
RunDMC
Prove. It. Hence “up until now”. Just be careful spending stupid money. Another NL East team tried that and hasn’t worked out well so far.
MetsFan22
You better hope we are like the Phillies and not the dodgers. If Cohen hires smart people and they are smart…. in a few years you might hate us lol. And we will just be you guys with more money to spend
VonPurpleHayes
The Mets have been spending stupid money for decades. Stop the myth that they didn’t spend money until now. Blatantly false.
RunDMC
“If Cohen hires smart people and they are smart…” lol. Alright, Zoolander. I hear that’s the topic of Michael Lewis’ Moneyball-followup:
“Smartball: The Art of Hiring Smart People – And They Are Smart”.
This. Will. Change. The. Game. Of. Baseball. As. We. Know. It.
You’re good people, Metsfan22. Bless.
MetsFan22
The never really spent how they were suppose too. If you truly don’t believe this to be true I can’t help you figure it out.
MetsFan22
I’m just trying to say. (Not next year.) but if the Mets are not dumb under this new ownership the Braves are in trouble. You have to hope we are the Phillies
MarlinsFanBase
Last I checked, under the Wilpons, Mets outspent many playoff teams, League Champions and World Series Champions.
So how is it that they didn’t spend enough?
If anything, spending even more and still sucking will make them an even bigger laughing stock than they already have been.
RunDMC
Shhh…don’t spoil the fun of them finding out that money doesn’t equal championships. Something you’d think they’d find out from watching Yankees at the top of every newscast until the most recent Mets injury/loss is covered. But hey, NL East had the 2 lowest payrolls in the division make the playoffs – a year that saw the most ever postseason participants.
stevebaratta
I haven’t seen this many periods since the NHL Playoffs.
(I posted this under a previous comment, I’m seeing it lower.)
rct
@RunDMC: lmao at ‘go deeper’
mlb1225
Morton is definitley a tier above mid-level.
Spare Tire Dixon
Aside from AA’s two signings for far?
Ducky Buckin Fent
Hey, I like a good LolMets joke as much as the next guy.
But May & McCann are both top 50 free agents & good players. As a Yankee fan, May was a guy I hoped we’d sign. I guarantee you, that *many* Yankee fans would love to see McCann in pinstripes.
Mets off to a good start. & Cohen is an owner while Anthopoulos is a GM. I’m not really sure how they’re all that comparable, uh?
Get Off My Mound
Von the Mets have not spent stupid money with an recency.
VonPurpleHayes
12th highest payroll in 2018. They spent. They just didn’t spend wisely.
Get Off My Mound
Im not by any means saying they don’t spend, they do. 12th in the league in spending, which is essentially middle of the pack, is no where near stupid money, as you implied earlier.
MetsFan22
The Mets should be top 5 not 12th. But now they will be so it’s all good.
Get Off My Mound
See now thats the difference between what should be and what actually is, reality.
MetsFan22
Well now it’s going to be a reality
MarlinsFanBase
But will more spending make them better?
The Mets under the Wilpons outspent many playoff teams, League Champions and World Series Champions.
VonPurpleHayes
Why should they be 5th? I’m confused by this assumption. Because they play in New York? Just because they play in a big market doesn’t mean they bring in the same type of revenue as their cross team rivals. Remember the market is split by two teams. Historically, the Mets were always hovering around the top 10 in payroll. Obviously things changed lately, and I fully admit Cohen is bringing a level of excitement to this franchise not seen since the team splurged on Mike Piazza in the 90s.
Anyway, I fully admit the Mets were hampered a bit by the Wilpons, especially in recent years, but I just refute the idea that they weren’t spending. There are plenty of other franchises that don’t spend. I don’t put the Mets in that category. I do think Cohen owning the team is good for baseball and the fanbase though.
Ma4170
They wouldn’t spend on the top FA, that was the issue… for example, if Cohen owned the team last year, we’d prob have rendon (if he was willing to come)… wilpons didn’t even consider him
And of course they should spend like a top 5 team… I’m sure their revenues have been at that level
MetsFan22
Thank you. It’s really common sense
jdgoat
If you’re going to give out 4 years just pay up and bring in Realmuto. McCann is fine but two teams already decided he wasn’t their starting catcher, I would not lock him into a contract for that long.
UnknownPoster
I understand the idea, but if it’s… 55M or 125M+. That’s still a very large gap man to say they should just buck up
jdgoat
True I guess its hard to say before both sign deals. I wasn’t expecting McCann to get four years though.
hyraxwithaflamethrower
It all depends on the value. As for two teams deciding he’s not their starter, he wasn’t that good on Detroit. Fairly good glove, but below-average for a C at the plate. As for the Sox, McCann had a killer first half in 2019, then slumped badly in the second half. Grandal was available and is widely regarded as the game’s second-best C, so the Sox grabbed him. Had McCann had a year like 2020 in 2019, I don’t think the Sox get Grandal, but rather try to lock up McCann. It’s not like they’re getting rid of him because he sucks.
Rangers29
Shut up Andy Martino, nobody cares about your news.
mlbnyyfan
McCann would be my choice so they could use some savings on Springer /Bauer.
Rangers29
My choice too, I just said what I did because he said they weren’t close to a deal, and I just… don’t like Martino lol.
mets1536
They want McCann to come in and be a Bridge to Francisco Alvarez in 2-3 years.
They don’t want to have Realmuto on an expensive 6 or 7 year deal with a Bad Hip.
fred-3
Why are they offering 4 years if want to bridge the gap?
UnknownPoster
Only a dumb team just gives a prospect the starting catching job. You want overlap. Dh is coming soon too. They are banking on that in next 4 years
Either mccann dh, or him at 1B and Alonso’s DH. etc
MetsFan22
Do you know how highly regarded Alvarez is??? Next big catcher. Obviously there is always bust but based on projections. You have to assume he has the job 4 years from now.
Mrtwotone
@Metsfan22
Alvarez looks like a really good catching prospect and this is coming from a braves fan. I think he’ll be ready in less than four years though.
rct
@MetsFan22: ‘You have to assume he has the job 4 years from now.’
The odds of projecting a catching prospect four years out have got to be very, very low. Injuries, production, trades, where the team is, emergence of other players, etc. There’s a million variables going into that. I would probably have better odds assuming he’s not even on the team anymore than being their every day starting catcher in four years, regardless of how highly touted he is.
itsallbravesnation
I’ve got to believe Alvarez is going to be top 10-20 prospect in the league in the next year or two. He’s got a tremendous scouting report- both on field skills and his drive and determination.
I’m liking what I hear of this kid.
jim stem
You NEVER assume a player is going to be a stud when he comes up 4 years from now. Lol. Too much can happen and the majors have a way of sending ‘can’t miss’ prospects out into the real world with shattered dreams.
jim stem
So did Swihart and 100 other failed prospects. It takes so much more than scouting reports to excel into an All Star.
stymeedone
Boston would like to tell you about their future catcher, Blake Swihart!
VonPurpleHayes
Very curious to see if McCann gets overpaid out of fear of overpaying Realmuto. McCann has been excellent over the last 2 seasons, but will he be able to maintain that? I certainly think so, but still curious.
mlbnyyfan
The options are not very good after JT or McCann that’s why the Yankees are determined to fix Sanchez.
MetsFan22
Mets fans calm down. This means they are also going after a bigger piece
hyraxwithaflamethrower
The bidding war between the Mets and Angels over Bauer should be fun.
MetsFan22
Yeah, that war will probably come down to if Bauer wants to live in LA or NY bc both teams probably just pay him what he wants lol
hyraxwithaflamethrower
For Bauer, I think it comes down to more stuff than just where he’d rather live. He’s spoken several times about wanting to pitch every fourth day, how important an analytics-driven approach is, etc. He’s praised Cohen, but the Angels are willing to bend the normal rules, such as by experimenting with Ohtani as both an OF and P. He’ll get his money, no doubt, but if I had to guess right now, I’d say he ends up on the Mets. The fit is very good in both places, but the Mets have a better chance to win next year.
VonPurpleHayes
Also, if he maintains his production from the last 2 seasons, McCann is quite the addition.
MetsFan22
I worry about his defense
hyraxwithaflamethrower
Don’t worry about the defense. Worry about the offense if anything. 2018 and before, he was just a little below average for a C, though not bad. His defense has improved with the Sox, but it was fairly good before. Plus, defense generally doesn’t go into slumps.
ExileInLA 2
I’ve always thought that McCann + Springer + a top SP (or, for that matter, McCann + JBJ + Bauer) was a better use of $$ than the extra $10mm going to JTR.
Brac2brac
Timing is everything. He’s a solid player who had 150 very good games in Chicago. Translating that into 4 yrs and $60+ MM for a 31 year old ( mid next season) catcher would be absolutely amazing. Good luck James. Spend Super Steve’s money!
its_happening
Mets might be looking at McCann over JTR because of the number of years. Mets might not want to trade their Alvarez, their top catching prospect, who might be ready by 2023. McCann on a 3-year deal makes more sense than Realmuto on 5-years.
itsallbravesnation
Agreed. I’m excited about Alvarez.
The Human Toilet
Mets have lots of hole and have the money, but you still got to spend wisely as I am pretty sure Steve Cohen will be like the other owners not not want to be in luxury tax hell for multiples years like the other large market owners too. He will will likely be ok with it for a couple of years but will want to reset it here and there.
So signing McCann who will be much cheaper and still a strong option behind the plate so you can use the extra money to fill other holes with quality players might be more wise decision.
I would rather sign McCann over Realmuto so I can also go after Springer and have some money left to fill out the rest of the roster.
Dan Hunter
Mets will not get Springer.
rct
I disagree that the Mets have ‘lots of holes’. But I do think that the holes they do have (catching, starting pitching) are huge, particularly starting pitching. I’d rather have a great starting pitcher than Springer and just roll with Nimmo, Conforto, McNeil, and Smith for the outfield.
MetsFan22
Exactly the only real holes they have are C and SP and even Nimmo at CF (sucks defensively) isn’t really a hole bc o how good he hits..
Plus teams have shown the could win with a bad hitting C as long as he could defend well. I trust Cohen and company will solve pitching and either get springer or McCann/ realmuto
kodiak920
Nimmo is a career .258 hitter. He is the prototypical example of an average hitter. Useful player for sure, but not exactly Ted Williams, either, on offense. Has a little pop, though.
portopotti
He was a 4.5 WAR player in 2018. Injured half the year in 2019 and still had a 1.5 WAR and did the same in the shortened season last year…
dilson_herrera
Is it 1960? You’re using batting average. He has an elite .400+ OBP
rct
@kodiak920: so you’re going to only use Batting Average, which tells you nothing about his power, ability to draw a walk, hitting ability in relation to league-wide production, hitting ability related to the park he plays in, situational hitting, speed, defense, health, or attitude? And then say he’s ‘not exactly Ted Williams’ who is a top 5 hitter all time? Bizarre evaluation criteria you have there.
Looking at everything, though, Nimmo is a very solid piece who should be worth 4+ WAR if he can stay healthy.
VonPurpleHayes
His WAR is solid because he’s a walk machine, and I mean that in a good way.
nick1218
Nimmo is one of only 3 Mets in team history to have 2 seasons of .400 OBP. I am not a next gen stat guy myself but fans should realize that Nimmo is a fantastic on-base guy. Of the thousands who have ever played just Olerud, Hernandez and Nimmo have done it.
MarlinsFanBase
Don’t put Nimmo in the same sentence with Olerud and Hernandez. It’s insulting to them.
MetsFan22
Says they guy who put Ramirez in the same sentence as Nimmo lol
jim stem
This is where I think stats actually DO lie. Nimmo is actually THE replacement player.
If Nimmo gets 700 plate appearances, his value actually drops. To me, his value is greater when he is utilized late in games against relievers when pitchers HAVE to throw him strikes with runners on base.
He’s average defensively in left field, not a center fielder and not a right fielder. He’s a 4th of’er. He plays with tons of heart and enthusiasm, battles lefties well, but doesn’t mash righties.
As far as his obp, I think he takes way too many pitches, especially IN the strike zone. He looks terrible on 2 strike breaking pitches.
All this being said, I’m fine with the Mets keeping him and love watching him play, but who sits when he starts?
Not Mike Conforto.
Not Dom Smith.
Not Pete Alonso.
Nimmo is replaceable and one of the few trade pieces we have IF we want to trade for a bigger piece. If not, he’s a great, affordable piece as the 4th outfielder on the team.
SalaryCapMyth
I’d say short stop is a hole for a playoff team.
MetsFan22
Nah. Gimenez could play
Dan Hunter
Springer to Boston
Bauer to Angels
McCann does not have the leadership of JTR.
JTR is a MUCH better get than McCann
Mets finish 4th.
newpony13
Why the hell would Boston sign springer? They’re not even rumored to be talking to him. The blue jays are the team going hardest for Springer, per reports.
Other than that the rest seems possible
Dan Hunter
Correct, Springer might go to the Jays
Bauer will be on the left coast
So much for Mets shopping in the gourmet aisle, or even getting a whiff of it.
Dorothy_Mantooth
Boston is not signing any of the free agents with qualifying offers. They are not giving up the 4th pick in the 2nd round of the draft, especially after losing their 2nd round pick last year. Chaim was hired to rebuild their farm system and to string together a competitive team by spending money wisely. They value their draft picks more than ever, so Springer will not be coming to Boston. Plus they don’t need him as Duran will be ready to take over CF by June or July at the latest. He profiles as a young Jacoby Ellsbury with a little less power than Ellsbury had.
Sideline Redwine
Dude has one really good “year”, and he is suddenly a hot commodity. Just as I do not judge players for a bad corona year, likewise I will hold off on anointing someone as great based on fifty games. Thanks, no thanks.
portopotti
How about the 119 games the previous year. Is that enough of a sample size?
MadSkillsUniversity
Man, I hate losing McCann. The dude is way better on D, can hit and is an all around great guy. I’d rather have him with the White Sox, However, he deserves to start. As long as he does not go to a rival. LOL Good luck James. We will miss you on the south side.
sirklearhead
It would appear to me that Alderson is playing “Moneyball”. Always looking for the best bargain. The only way to justify McCann over J.T. Is saying you get McCann and Springer and the clog in the outfield suggests another huge trade possibility and still sign Bauer. It’s an 4 every day position player overhaul.
Dan Hunter
Horrible move for an owner who purportedly has 14..6 billion dollars.
McCann is only a touch better than Ramos.
CNichols
You would think JTR would sign first since he’s the top of the market.
Kind of weird to me that the Mets seem so in on McCann unless they’re giving up on JTR and just want to go right to plan B.
hyraxwithaflamethrower
Maybe McCann is plan A. For the same money, would you rather have McCann and Hendriks or just JTR?
Dan Hunter
Just JTR.
Bill M
Maybe the Mets think that McCann will be a better value – more bang for the buck. Then they can set aside some $$$ for Bauer. The weird thing is the 4-years for McCann
jim stem
Realmuto is smart to wait until McCann signs because there will be a bidding war for him after that, especially if McCann gets 4/70. Agents get big money for a reason.
Dan Hunter
If the Mets got JTR Springer and Snell they could.
Not with a second rater like McCann, though.
MoRivera 1999
The opposite can be said as well. McCann would be smart to wait until JTR signs, because then there would be a bidding war for McCann. Agents get big money for a reason. Maybe McCann and JTR will try to wait each other out.
jim stem
At Mo: you are correct, it works both ways. But I don’t think McCann is as valuable as the starter as he is the #2.
Realmuto is a real run producer who, in an average year, produces twice as many doubles, runs and RBI’s than McCann in his average season.
Realmuto also averages about 140 games a year and is extremely consistent. NOBODY looks to run on Realmuto, which would greatly help us.
Yes, the Mets need McCann if they can’t get JTR because any option ‘B’ isn’t really much of an upgrade. But if Realmuto is truly available, I’m all for having McCann as the #2, too. Now that would be something!
Dan Hunter
Baer will never go to Queens.
TradeRumorUser
Lol if Mets sign him and he fizzles badly in ny I can’t wait to hear the cries how we should of got realmuto and how long it takes for them to want to get rid of sandy and Cohen
jim stem
I don’t think McCann is worth s big contract just looking at his numbers until you compare him to other available catchers. The catching position is just horrible across the board.
slider32
You can win the off season but in reality nobody is going to beat the Dodgers in the NL for years to come. The Mets could get Realmuto, Springer, and Bauer and they wouldn;t be better than the Dodgers.
dilson_herrera
No
MetsFan22
The Nats beat them. Braves took them 7. This isn’t basketball. If they get those 3 the dodgers wouldn’t want to face the Mets.
SalaryCapMyth
The best team looses all the time. How many seasons were the Dodgers the best?
chriscala
What a dumb comment lol
dilson_herrera
I thinm the Mets will probably sign both McCann and Realmuto and then trade Mcann for prospects. Money talks
hyraxwithaflamethrower
I think that would be a really dumb move. Teams would know the Mets have to move McCann because he’s wasted if he stays. It takes away a good chunk of the Mets’ leverage. Plus, they’d pretty much have to lie to one of JTR or McCann to get them both on the team because one isn’t signing if they know the other’s coming.
Wadz
Its also not legal….
rct
Not possible unless McCann agrees to it. They wouldn’t be able to trade him until June 15th. This prevents ‘sign-and-trade’ deals like in the NBA:
‘An Article XX-B MLB free-agent who signs a Major League contract after 11:59 PM (Eastern) on the 5th day after the final game of the World Series has an automatic “no trade” right through June 15th. The player can waive this right, but if he does he can be traded only for cash and/or player contracts with a maximum aggregate value of $50,000. Note that an Article XX-B MLB free-agent who signs a minor league contract after 11:59 PM (Eastern) on the 5th day after the final game of the World Series does NOT receive an automatic “no trade” right, even if the player is later added to the club’s MLB Reserve List (40-man roster).’
MarlinsFanBase
Wow, video game logic is always entertaining.
Joe Momma
I’m more into COD warzone these days…..
Sideline Redwine
Lol sure.
Dan Hunter
If the Mets got JTR Springer and Snell they could.
Not with a second rater like McCann, though.
the outlaw
Interesting move.
Perhaps the Mets are telling a STORY here. Once upon a time they Mets would save money but still upgrading a very lean position w McCaan.
The STORY will take shape later tonight I believe. Do they have what it will take to tell this STORY? Time will tell.
MarlinsFanBase
I keep thinking that JTR ends up with the Yankees.
Marlins are a dark horse because they only traded JTR after he refused to sign a long term extension with them. I wouldn’t rule them out on approaching him again, especially if they’re not sure about Alfaro. I doubt it, but I wouldn’t be surprised.
rct
So he refused to sign a long term deal with them already, but somehow you have them as a dark horse to sign him, despite the Marlins rarely signing anyone of significance and having practically a zero percent success rate in keeping anyone they’ve signed. Marlins Fan logic.
I mean, if Realmuto wants to assure himself that he’ll be the subject of constant trade talk before ultimately getting shipped to the Dodgers, Red Sox, or Yankees, then he better rush to sign with the Marlins.
Brac2brac
@rct
JTR didn’t sign an extension bc he wanted to test free agency and try for both the biggest contract and the highest AAV ever signed by a catcher. He’d go back to Miami if they made such an offer.
Might get the AAV, but I’d be shocked if the contract was more than 5 years
My thought 5 years and $125MM max and lucky to get that. s/b 5 $100.
VegasSDfan
Active talks, oh my gosch!
The Mets could be headed to 3rd or 4th place in 2021.
Dan Hunter
If Mets get McCann giant mistake.
They will not even make the Wild Card.
hyraxwithaflamethrower
If Mets get only McCann, totally agree. Their going after McCann seems to point toward having other big acquisitions in mind and feeling he’ll provide better value than JTR.
Canosucks
#Dan
Dan are you related to JTR? Are you working for his agent?
Met’s have other and greater needs and they can’t burn all their cash up on one aging catcher with hip problems like JTR.
Secondly they have no catching now so McCann is an upgrade no matter how he plays in comparison
Joe Momma
I have a feeling JTR holds out all winter, possibly to a Machado/Harper level, with very high expectations on a contract which is why I don’t think it’s a bad play to make a move for McCann and lock up a very important cog to a winning team – a capable to above average catcher.
They have a hole at catcher, this takes care of the problem ASAP and makes sales pitches to SP’s a lot easier knowing they have C locked up.
I also don’t like the idea of JTR saying any NY team has to pay a premium to sign him. Everyone in the world knows any player who comes to NY, regardless of league, is also coming with the highest offer in hand. No need to come off like that when it’s a given.
Dan Hunter
This move reeks of “same old Mets.” McCann is defensively as abhorant as Ramos.
Tom1968
What is this infatuation with realmuto? Guys a 30 yr old with developing hip problems..are the rest of the mlb catchers so bad that this guy looks like the second coming of bench/piazza?..
Sideline Redwine
I have the same question about mccann. One very good season…over fifty games. Never been good defensively. But “four years/seventy million!” Lol.
Joe Momma
Honestly, yes. Apparently Sanchez is ranked the 4th best catcher in baseball on some list Micheal Kay was was talking about this week. That is crazy to me bc I don’t even look at him as a starting catcher anymore. Good catchers have always been hard to come by but in 2020 the position is dry as ever.
jim stem
In the past 2 years, Realmuto has scored and driven in 72 MORE total runs than McCann. If 2020 had been a full season, it probably would have been close to 100.
Realmuto has been the most productive catcher in baseball the past 3-4 seasons, hands down. McCann barely ranks 10-15th and miles behind Realmuto in total run production AND a year older.
An average three to 4 years going forward will only widen that gap, not close it. Realistically, McCann is .260/15/50 in 110 games with quality defense this year, then those numbers begin to drop off and we STILL need a #2 for 50-60 games each year.
If you ignore homeruns and look at runs scored and runs driven in, Realmuto is probably worth twice as much as McCann. McCann would likely hit 7th with Mets, maybe 8th if Rosario is moved. Realmuto might slot 3rd or 5th snd could again push for 90 runs scored and 80 knocked in. His 170 runs generated compared to McCann’s 115 or so (55+60) is pretty significant.
Bottom line is, even after McCann’s really nice 2018 season, his own team went out and got another starting catcher! He knocked in 15 runs in 2020 (compared to Realmuto’s 33) in a pretty strong lineup.
In a perfect scenario, we sign Realmuto plus another really good defensive catcher who could actually start 3-4 weeks if needed and hit more than .210 with just singles. McCann would be the perfect #2, but not the starter for 3+ years.
Joe C. 2
Good thing no one evaluates talent like you do anymore. My god. Realmuto is the better player but McCann had a 144 wRC+ last year (as opposed to Realmuto’s 125 wRC+). Not to mention he is a very good defensive catcher (+5 DRS) and a good pitch framer. Stop using traditional stats. Its 2020. Teams don’t evaluate talent that way. Neither should fans.
The Mets are probably going to use the big money to sign Springer.
Sideline Redwine
Mccann has never been a good defensive catcher, those numbers are outliers.
And, I would argue, only further prove stats are one of the three types of lies.
Just_a_thought
“Historically speaking, stats have never favored James McCann. Statistically speaking, stats are not 100% statistically accurate, therefore stats are statistically sometimes lies. Heretofore, stats are lies. As such, we must exclude one year the stats reflect favorably for James McCann. In conclusion, James McCann is not a good catcher because I believe stats are lies.”
Ma4170
I don’t mind using “old school” stats, but at least acknowledge JTR had 77 more AB last year and 100 the year before if you’re only going to use counting stats and not even RBI/AB
Dan Hunter
again why dont we resign Ramos?
He is worse than McCann but cheaper.
Disaster waiting to happen.
Joe C. 2
Because Ramos can’t play defense. Did you watch him at all last year or were you asleep?
Bill M
Ramos’ play last year put everyone to sleep, especially the runners on base when he was at the plate
Dan Hunter
McCann cannot play defense.
Ma4170
Why do you keep insisting he can’t play defense
Canosucks
#Dan
Ramos could not call a game either; that is why Thor did not want to throw to him. I watched a game where Ramos for 3 innings straight called nothing but heat and no off speed pitches He made Wheeler look bad and Thor.
I am glad he is gone and would rather have McCann than overpay for JTR..
McCann was ranked right after JTR for defensive metrics last coupe years so don’t know where no defense comes from and he has good framing skills
Backup Catcher to the Backup Catcher
As a long time Phillies fan, I loved what JTR brought to the table each day. However, catchers tend to age faster, especially when they are north of thirty. Just ask the Giants who paid out big bucks for Posey and now watch production that barely rivals a back up infielder. Plus, catchers are more likely to get injured.
Okay, I get it. Catchers with a solid defensive acumen can save runs with their pitch calling, framing and overall handling of a staff. Still, much as I’d like to see Realmuto back in Philly next season, were I the GM, I’d have a hard time wrapping my arms around giving him $120 million and six years.
I’d rather spend the money elsewhere and just have a decent catcher. Someone like Tucker Barnhart. Good defensive catcher; throws out runners at a pretty good clip and he’s not a wet noodle with the bat.
LordD99
The Mets were viewed as his likely landing spot based on need and new ownership with cash to burn. If McCann signs with them, that should put the Phillies back as the lead team for his services.
sandman12
I predict 4 years and $32M for McCann.
5 years and $80M for Realmuto
hyraxwithaflamethrower
You’re well low on Realmuto, and a little low on McCann. I’d say 3/$32 for McCann, with a $10M option for Yr 4. JTR, 5/$110-$115M.
HALfromVA
The Blue Jays are interested in both, I’m hearing.
whynot 2
People are saying?
SJWMets
Cohen should have hired a GM by now. The game has passed Alderson.
SalaryCapMyth
The guy was last with the Mets in 2018. He was playing with the Athletics BEFORE Cohen brought him in and has a reputation for analytics. You know there are other teams players and managers can work for, right?
chriscala
Two ridiculous comments lol
SalaryCapMyth
You don’t know what you’re talking about.
LordD99
A 4/46 deal now seems possible with multiple bidders.
to4
I think they will go after McCann who has pretty much the same offensive numbers and defensive metrics, then go hard after LeMahieu and Bauer and probably sign a guy like Bradley Jr. to play CF or make a trade involving Nimmo or Smith plus’s Rosario or Gimenez and prospects for a SS.
whynot 2
They have already made it clear they do not intend to use prospects to acquire talent. Acquisitions will be made through free agency.
Dan Hunter
Do NOT get McCann, Mets!
whynot 2
Amazing insight, the amount of thought that went into crafting such analysis is astounding.
hyraxwithaflamethrower
Did McCann run over your dog or something? Preferring JTR over McCann and whomever else that money would get, fine, I understand, but I don’t get why you’re this insistent about it.
Dan Hunter
Mets need a leader on field McCann is not that, JTR is.
whynot 2
Really dude, what’s with the animosity towards McCann? Are you related to Realmuto or something?
rct
Multiple articles, this guy keeps trashing McCann. Some people’s obsessions are weird.
chriscala
Joe McKnight disagrees with you also
chriscala
Correction. McEwing
Dan Hunter
No animosity McCann is 2nd tier and Cohen has well over 14 billion dollars.
IjustloveBaseball
If the Mets’ only hole was behind the dish, then I’d say JTR would absolutely be the way to go. However, they still need to add a CFer and another starter — word is the money is there, but I think it’d be wiser to spread it around.
Bill M
Agree. And maybe even another bullpen piece, so McCann is the right way to go
Dan Hunter
To Lose Games
whynot 2
You are relentless, I’ll give you that
flmetfan
Just hoping the Mets sign McCann. Hope there is money left for an OF and SP.
nick1218
there is lots of money left, and Im not just saying that because Cohen is rich but because where their total sits right now
Dan Hunter
McCann is not going to the Mets.
whynot 2
How are you so certain?
hyraxwithaflamethrower
This is a case of “I don’t wan’t” = “It’s not happening.” He has no more idea than the rest of us.
goldenmisfit
New ownership same business practices.
msqboxer
CWS fan here…McCann is an above average replacement value catcher. That being said, I think the increase in production was that he platooned and the grind of a whole season didn’t wear him down. He’s worth 3/$22-$24MM as long as you have a back up that can play 40 games a year.
Dorothy_Mantooth
He’s going to get a lot more than 3/24. I see him getting at least 3/36 or even 3/40.
LordD99
That is a concern. He’s yet to show he can maintain the hitting he’s shown in 2019 and 2020 over a season. His hitting regressed to Detroit level the second half of 2019 as his catching increased and the grind of the season wore in. In 2020, he had a job share and a very short season. I do suspect his hitting will drop to an OPS+ in the 90s if he becomes a team’s primary catcher.
baseballpun
Can’t blame McCann for wanting to join the next dynasty. I predict 6 titles in 8 years for the Metropolitans. I would say 7 in 8, but I want to be conservative.
G Vanlue
1 title in 8 years would thrill this fanbase, and it doesn’t seem totally unreasonable to hope for with some better decision making.
Doug Dueck
@ baseball pun – what would you suggest would cause the 2 years of failing to win a title? just injuries or what else?
MetsFan22
Probably injuries. I personally think they only win 5 in 8 years.
baseballpun
A combination of injuries and cheating scandals by opponents.
Dorothy_Mantooth
I’m starting to think that J.T. Realmuto’s market is not going to be as strong as he or his agent thinks. The folks at MLBTR originally forecasted a 6 year deal for JTR and then adjusted it down to 5 years. I don’t see him getting more than a 4 year offer with a team option for the 5th year and feel that he might struggle to reach $100M of contract value. If the Mets sign McCann, JTR’s market really shrinks to two teams: Philadelphia and Washington. Neither team has an abundance of money to spend this offseason so this may end up like the JD Martinez saga 3 years ago. JDM tried to wait out the market for a better deal but had to come back to Boston and accept their original proposal. While catcher is a much more important position than OF/DH, JTR’s market is small and he may very well have to settle for a deal much lower than he and his agent anticipated.
LordD99
If his price drops, how about the Red Sox stepping in and then using Vazquez as a trade piece? I also still wouldn’t rule out the Yankees if they don’t sign DJLM and JTR’s price falls into an acceptable range.
Dorothy_Mantooth
That would be great for Boston or NY but I don’t either team doing that to be honest. NY wants to duck below the CBT this year and Boston has too many holes to fill. Adding JTR for $18M-$20M would preclude them from spending in the areas they really need help, namely the pitching staff and OF.
SalaryCapMyth
The Yankees and Angels have been linked to him as well. Losing the Mets as a possible landing spot may very well mean the end to his hope of advancing the catcher market.
That desire of JTR may be what’s pricing him away from Cohen. Cohen can afford JTR but he also isn’t just going to spend his money in stupid ways. At some point, McCann becomes more valuable than JTR depending on the costs involved.
Dorothy_Mantooth
I also expect the Rays to sign Curt Casali any day now.
okiguess
What’s not to like about McCann? .250 hitter, doesn’t walk, strikes out a lot. If the Mets want a defense oriented catcher they should not pay a premium for so-so offense. If they really want both, pony up and pay Reamulto.
VonPurpleHayes
McCann is good, but as a Phillies fan I will be very relieved not to see Realmuto in blue and orange. Don’t get me wrong, McCann would be a good pickup and gives them soms flexibility towards Bauer and Springer signing, but my stomach couldn’t take JT in Queens. So please sign McCann.
jim stem
Ok, bigger picture thought: if the Mets sign McCann for, say, 4 years at 12 per, what do they pay the catcher who has to play the other 50-60 games?
A second quality catcher is probably going to run 3/15 or so. That means paying your catchers 17 million a year and still NOT getting Realmuto production.
Realmuto at 4/100 million is a difference of about 8 million per season. The bigger difference is Realmuto gives you 140 games and real offensive production that pretty much, in his average season, DOUBLES the output of McCann in his best season. Extra base hits, runs scored, games played, OBS, k:bb…bottom line is that Realmuto is WORTH two average catchers.
angt222
Reports were McCann was likely to garner $36M for a 4 yr contract. I can see him getting $40M/4 yrs from NYM.
Bill M
The McCann signing seemed like it was a done deal yesterday. Now, not so much. I’m wondering if the 4th year is the sticking point. Could he really be getting a 4 year offer from a team other than the Mets? Doesn’t seem likely to me, but who knows?