But Mets management never saw Cespedes as anything but a mercenary, coming on for the team's late-season run and likely leaving in the offseason. But thrice Gammons heard rumors about Cespedes signing with the Astros.
The Mets are still considered underdogs to sign Yoenis Cespedes, the top free agent bat left.
So if rumors about the New York Mets signing Yoenis Cespedes turn out to be true, they're still going to have to open the wallet up big for him.
As he wrote, that would give Cespedes the long-term contract he wants while also giving the Mets a deal that would save money in the short-term.
But then again, it's interesting to ponder if the Padres would consider making a long-term offer to the 30-year-old while they have the opportunity to capitalize on what seems to be a down market. Alex Gordon re-signed with the Royals for four years and $72 million, Jason Heyward landed with the Cubs on an eight-year, $184-million contract, and Upton's deal is reportedly worth $132.75 million over six years.
Another day has passed during what's been an interesting hot stove season, and it's another day in which Yoenis Cespedes is without a baseball club.
If the Mets really are willing to offer $60 million over three years for Cespedes, and there is a similar willingness from other teams, they should step up their efforts and get this done. The Mets are locked into Curtis Granderson and Michael Conforto for their corner outfield spots. The team could also look to Springer, but he is still young, full of potential and is under team control for a few more years.
While many teams are interested in Cespedes - especially if he's fielding short-term contracts - the Angels, Mets, Tigers and White Sox remain the favorites to acquire his signature. And it would be a nightmare both public relations wise and on the field for the Mets if one of them signed him.
Now that the Orioles and Chris Davis agreed to a deal, it should follow that the market for Cespedes becomes a bit more clear.
BRIEF: Class A Columbia third baseman Eudor Garcia received an 80-game suspension for testing positive for performance-enhancing drugs Bumetanide and Furosemide.
Clinton's Response to Sanders Has Some Democrats Worried
Among Democratic primary voters, 70% have a favorable opinion of Clinton, while 78% have a favorable view of Sanders. Clinton's campaign had multiple cameras here and plan to turn part of the speech into an ad, according to aides.
