(Neil Miller/Sportsday Wire)
A week ago there was every reason to understand there was no chance of Yoenis Cespedes returning to Citi Field and solving the lack of that big bat in the lineup for the New York Mets. Well in a matter of a few days, once again the tide has turned with multiple sources reporting that Cespedes and the Mets are talking again.
And the chances of Cespedes hitting that home run ball again as a Met are better than chances of winning the $1.5 billion Powerball Jackpot.
Though the Atlanta Braves have suddenly appeared as the newest team in the Cespedes discussion, perhaps offering as much as three years, amount not disclosed, the developments in New York Wednesday are very realistic that Cespedes and the Mets are talking something in a one or two year deal.
The stock for Cespedes has dropped and with six weeks before pitchers and catchers report to spring training, the need to settle with a team makes it that more of a reality. The Mets, according to sources, have reportedly started the process to capitalize on the opportunity to regain the outfielder from Cuba, who hit 17 home runs in 230 at bats with New York after being acquired at the trading deadline from the Tigers.
Two other sources with knowledge have been able to confirm that Cespedes and the Mets are meeting with a one or two year deal on the table that is agreeable for both sides.
What was once a multi -year deal, and one that the Mets would not consider because of their payroll restrictions, is now a thing of the past.
In other words, a multi-year deal is not in the discussion. “A month ago I would have said forget about Cespedes and now it is more of a reality that the Mets and their fans could see the name Yoenis Cespedes back in the lineup again,” said a source close to the Mets organization.
Another high ranking baseball official, and with a team not in the Cespedes hunt, was also able to confirm that the Mets may be close to re-signing Cespedes to a one or two-year deal with the Braves and two other teams in the discussion.
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