The Mets and Michael Cuddyer have agreed on a two-year deal, the team announced on Twitter.
Joel Sherman reports that the total deal is worth $21 million dollars, with $8.5 million for the 2015 season, and $12.5 million in 2016.
According to beat reporters, the Mets simply were not willing to part with any of their young arms to acquire a corner outfielder and made the decision to part with the 15th overall pick in next June’s Draft.
Cuddyer, who will be 36 on Opening Day, is a two-time All-Star and the 2013 NL batting champion after he hit a career-best .331 (162-489) in 130 games with Colorado.
“Michael is a tremendous addition to the middle of our lineup,” Mets General Manager Sandy Alderson said. “He is a proven offensive threat who also brings versatility in the field with the ability to play multiple positions.”
Cuddyer appeared in 49 games with Colorado last season, hitting .332 (63-190) with 10 home runs and 31 RBI.
He made starts at first base (11), third base (2) and right field (35) and missed time with a left shoulder strain and a left hamstring strain, making three separate trips to the disabled list.
Cuddyer will likely take over in right field while Curtis Granderson slides over to left field. He’ll also be able to take over for Lucas Duda at first base against tough lefties.
I gotta admit… This was a pleasant surprise…
November 4
The Rockies announced on Monday that they have extended a qualifying offer to their free agent outfielder Michael Cuddyer.
Cuddyer has until Monday to accept or reject the one-year, $15.3 million deal, but either way this definitely impacts the Mets.
If he turns it down, the Mets would have to forfeit the No. 15 overall pick in next June’s Draft. And of course if he accepts, he’s off the market.
Cuddyer was a perfect fit for the Mets offense and Andy Martino had several sources confide that Mets were considering a two-year deal for him.
