New York Mets: Signing Yoenis Cespedes Accomplishes Offseason Goal

The New York Mets were able to re-sign Yoenis Cespedes to a new deal. This signing will set them up for a lot of success in the future.

On Tuesday, the New York Mets were able to accomplish their number one priority this offseason. Signing outfielder Yoenis Cespedes was easily the most important thing that the Mets had to do this offseason, and they got it done.

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To the credit of the organization, the Mets got this deal done quick with it not even being December. The four-year, $110 million contract was a win for both Cespedes and the Mets.

Last offseason, Cespedes signed a very favorable contract with the Mets. After a great second half of the season in New York, Cespedes signed a three-year deal with an opt out option after the first year.

In 2016, Cespedes totaled a .280 batting average, 31 home runs, and 86 RBIs. Despite missing some time with a leg injury, and playing hurt, Cespedes was great in his first full season with the Mets. The Mets may not have made the World Series like in 2015, but it was a great season considering all of their injuries.

As many expected when it was obvious Cespedes was having another great year, he opted out of his contract shortly after the World Series. After the great season, he would have been foolish not to. Now, Cespedes was able to essentially get another two years and $60 million dollars from the Mets.

While some might say it is a lot of money, the years are the important thing for the Mets. Unlike teams in the past, the Mets were able to avoid going over a five-year deal for Cespedes, which is huge for a player over 30-years-old.

Since the contract is a win for both sides, it’s time to turn the attention to what the Mets can accomplish now in 2017. Assuming the pitching staff is healthy, the Mets will once again be a playoff team next season.

Due to the emergence of the Chicago Cubs, the Mets are destined for another postseason battle with them. The Mets were able to beat the Cubs once in the postseason already, as their young pitching shut down the Cubs.

Having Cespedes was the key for the Mets. Since arriving, he has been the heart and soul of the lineup. With some decent pieces around him, the Mets have enough hitting to go with their great pitching rotation.

The signing of Cespedes could result in the Mets looking to deal outfielder Jay Bruce. Due to the outfield being a bit crowded, the Mets might look to move Bruce this offseason. The trading of Bruce could help restock their farm system.

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There will likely be more moves made by the Mets this offseason, but the big one is done. Keeping Cespedes was a must. Give credit to the organization for opening up their wallets to keep their best hitter in New York. The Mets have to think like they are going to be a World Series contender every year. This was a good indication that they now their time is now to win.