David Richard-USA TODAY Sports

Good morning, Mets fans!

First baseman Anthony Rizzo opted out of the final year of his contract with the Yankees, making himself a free agent. Rizzo was set to make $16 million this season. In 130 games, Rizzo tied a career-high by hitting 32 homers in 2022 with a .224/.338/.480 batting line, though his .224 batting average is the lowest he’s recorded in a full season. Rizzo was productive during the Yankees’ postseason run, going 8-for-29 with two homers and eight RBIs.

Latest Mets News

As many expected, Taijuan Walker and Jacob deGrom both declined their player options for 2023, making them free agents. Walker was set to make just six million dollars after his strong 2022, while deGrom was slated to make $32.5 million in both 2023 and 2024.

Mike Mayer of MMO reports that there’s been buzz about the Mets potentially making a run at free-agent superstar Trea Turner. A threat both at the plate and on the bases, Turner hit .298/.343/.466 with 21 homers, 39 doubles, 27 steals, and 100 RBIs in 2022. A sizzle reel of Turner’s highlights narrated by Jon Hamm was sent to teams yesterday.

Buck Showalter was named a finalist for the NL Manager of the Year award. He will be contending against Braves’ skipper Brian Snitker and Dodgers’ manager Dave Roberts. A full list of all the awards finalists can be found on MLB.com.

The Mets will release single-game tickets for spring training at 10 am today on Mets.com. The Mets are set to host 16 games at Clover Park, including two games against World Baseball Classic teams on March 8-9.

The Mets announced they have named Brenden Mallette their Senior Vice President of Corporate Partnerships. Mallette will be tasked with leading the Business Development, Strategy, and Partner Activation teams. Mallette comes to Flushing after serving the same role for the Detroit Pistons.

Latest MLB News

Angels general manager Perry Minasian said that Shohei Ohtani will not be traded this offseason despite much speculation. Ohtani is entering his walk year with the Angels, in which he’s set to make $30 million.

MLB announced they will air the first-ever draft lottery on Tuesday, December 6 at 8:30 pm. The Nationals, A’s, and Pirates all hold the top odds of getting the first pick at 16.5 percent.

The Phillies announced they have picked their club option on Aaron Nola and declined their option on Jean Segura. Furthermore, right-hander, Zach Eflin has declined his mutual option and will enter free agency.

Albert Belle, Rafael Palmeiro, Barry Bonds, Don Mattingly, Roger Clemens, Fred McGriff, Dale Murphy, and Curt Schilling will be on the Contemporary Baseball Era Players Committee ballot for the Hall of Fame. The 16-member committee will vote next month.

The Rockies announced two changes to their coaching staff. Former Mets bench coach Hensley Meulens will take over as the team’s hitting coach, while Warren Schaeffer will serve as the third base and infield coach.

Latest on MMO

Nate Mendelson explains why Daniel Vogelbach‘s contract is a steal for the Mets.

Tyler Antonelle profiles Trey Mancini as he enters free agency.

On This Date in Mets History

1979: Mets president Lorinda de Roulet announces that the team is up for sale. This begins a two-month bidding war for the team.

Birthdays: Shane Halter (53), Edgardo Alfonzo (49)