In the hopeful borough of Queens, Mets fans have seen their World Series dreams rekindled with the acquisition of Juan Soto. However, this excitement has come with a growing concern: the team’s payroll is quickly becoming a problem.
This issue is reflected in the Mets’ cost-effective signings of Clay Holmes (as a starter) and Frankie Montas, both of whom raise questions about the pitching staff. They are expected to replace Luis Severino and Jose Quintana, key figures in the rotation last season. Adding to the concern, the Mets seem to be distancing themselves from re-signing their star slugger, Pete Alonso, with both sides remaining far apart in contract negotiations.
Jeff McNeil: A Perfect Fit for the Yankees
Jeff McNeil, a slap hitter who typically pulls the ball, isn’t known for hitting home runs—but that could change dramatically in Yankee Stadium. Baseball Savant suggests that, taking park factors into account, McNeil would have hit 19 home runs in the Bronx in 2024, compared to just 12 at Citi Field. If McNeil can stay healthy, he could easily top 25 home runs a season with the Yankees (he hit 23 in 2019). But it gets even better.
Jeff McNeil
At his home park in Queens, McNeil struggled, posting a disappointing .199 average with just two home runs. However, on the road, he hit .279 with 10 home runs. A change of scenery could be exactly what McNeil needs to return to his old form. If he regains his ability to hit for averages above .300, he could be a major asset for the Yankees.
McNeil, who will turn 33 this season, is owed $15.75 million each year for the next two seasons, with a club option for 2027 at the same price. For the Mets, trading McNeil could provide a solid return and the financial flexibility to focus on re-signing Alonso.
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