Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

If any Mets fans are concerned about Max Scherzer‘s contract opt-out following the 2023 season, they can breathe a little more easily for the moment.

Unlike Jacob deGrom, who repeatedly emphasized his intention to opt out of his contract following last season, Scherzer made it clear that his approach is different.

Speaking to SNY about his opt-out clause following the second year of his three-year deal with the Mets, Scherzer stated that he had a specific goal in mind when he negotiated his contract.

“I wanted to pursue a championship in that third year. And that’s where an opt-out, to me, made sense. But obviously, Steve [Cohen] has demonstrated that we’re going to be trying to win the World Series. We’re gonna do whatever it takes to win,” Scherzer said. “But when I’m stepping in, I’ve gotta have that insurance, because talk is cheap, right? You’ve got to see the proof in the pudding, and we have now seen what Steve has done.”

Scherzer’s specific concern was regarding the opt-out clause in his co-ace Jacob deGrom’s deal. Knowing that deGrom would likely opt out due to the market increase since his previous deal was signed, Scherzer wanted to evaluate the Mets’ commitment to winning based on their reaction if deGrom left.

This drew a laugh from Scherzer, as it should from all Mets fans: Steve Cohen has put his money where his mouth is since the day he became the Mets’ owner. He did so resoundingly by signing Justin Verlander to replace deGrom while beefing up the team’s starting rotation and bullpen.

Now, Scherzer did note that it might become best for business (specifically for the MLB Players Association) for him to exercise the opt-out, but he said he will cross that bridge when he comes to it. His reasoning for the clause was not for money, but to win.

This frank discussion from Scherzer should endear him to Mets fans, who quickly learned last season that his intensity comes from a strong desire to win. This is the leader of the pitching staff that the Mets wanted, all about the team and all about bigger goals.

Buck Showalter knows where the Opening Day first pitch should go. It’s the dad of four whose single-minded focus is another ring.