The offseason has begun with a bombshell in New York. Following the stellar acquisition of Marcus Semien and the move of Brandon Nimmo, the New York Mets have focused on a deep restructuring and the future of two-time All-Star and 2022 batting champion Jeff McNeil hangs in the balance.
The move for Semien solidified second base, McNeil’s primary position, effectively relegating him to a secondary role within the roster. This situation, combined with management’s desire to bolster the bullpen and rotation, has made McNeil the Mets’ top trade asset on the market.
Jeff McNeil more out than in with the Mets
With the arrival of Semien, the 34-year-old McNeil faces the possibility of a secondary role. While his versatility to cover second base and all three outfield positions is valuable, his $15.75 million salary for 2026 makes him an overly expensive player for a role that could be filled by a developing talent like Luisangel Acuña.
Acuña has shown the ability to play multiple positions at a much lower team control cost, which increases the financial logic for the Mets to seek to maximize McNeil’s trade value now.
McNeil is in the final guaranteed year of his extension. In 2026, he will earn $15.75 million. This figure, combined with his age, forces the Mets to act quickly to get a significant return before his value diminishes.
Several teams would go after McNeil
League reports indicate that McNeil is on the radar of several teams in dire need of a high-level starting infielder. Among the possible suitors are:
- Kansas City Royals: Need for an experienced infielder.
- Pittsburgh Pirates: They could look for a contact veteran to boost their rebuilding offense.
- Los Angeles Angels: A team in need of a reliable contact bat for the top of their lineup.
- San Diego Padres: If they lose the talented Luis Arraez, McNeil would be a viable replacement at second base
The expectation is that the Mets will primarily look for pitching depth in exchange for McNeil. Specifically, they are focused on acquiring proven relievers and starting pitching prospects to bolster a system that needs to be replenished with talent.
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