The Mets have subtracted a fourth member from their core.
Jeff McNeil, who became expendable following a new addition last month, was traded to the A’s on Monday for a minor league pitcher, according to a source.
The Mets are also sending cash to help offset the $15.75 million that McNeil is owed for next season.
The Mets are getting back 17-year-old right-hander Yordan Rodriguez, who was 2-0 with a 2.93 ERA over eight appearances (one start) in his first year of rookie ball for the A’s last season.
McNeil’s days in Queens appeared numbered after the Mets acquired Marcus Semien in the trade that sent Brandon Nimmo to Texas in November.
“I want to thank Jeff for his time and contributions to the organization,” Mets president David Stearns said in a statement. “He was drafted by the team and grew up in our system. I wish Jeff and his family success and good luck going forward. We are excited to bring Yordan into our system. He is a young right-hander with a promising future.”
In addition to McNeil and Nimmo, the Mets have moved on from Pete Alonso and Edwin Diaz this offseason. Alonso signed a five-year deal worth $155 million with the Orioles two weeks ago. Diaz received a three-year deal with the Dodgers worth $69 million.
McNeil’s departure solves a potential clubhouse issue: The Post reported last month that he and Francisco Lindor had a heated confrontation last season following a defensive breakdown in a game against the Phillies on June 20.
McNeil produced a .243/.335/.411 slash line with 12 homers and 54 RBIs last season, moving between second base and the outfield.
Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns had previously indicated that McNeil would potentially see action at first base next season with the Mets.
[Notigroup Newsroom in collaboration with other media outlets, with information from the following sources]
