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After being non-tendered by the Dodgers on Thursday, former MVP Cody Bellinger is drawing “significant interest” around MLB, according to MLB insider Jim Bowden. At least five teams reached out to Bellinger within an hour of the announcement of his free agency. In three seasons following his MVP campaign, Bellinger has hit a dreadful .203/.272/.376 (74 OPS+) with 41 homers in 1,143 plate appearances (he hit 47 homers in his MVP season alone) and struck out in a career-worst 27.6% of his at-bats in 2022. However, Bellinger is just 27 years old and is a strong defender in the outfield and at first base, making him an intriguing free agent.

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The Mets have reportedly spoken with reigning Cy Young award winner Justin Verlander, according to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic. In his age-39 season, Verlander turned in a sparkling 1.75 ERA and a 0.829 WHIP with 185 strikeouts in 175 innings. Rosenthal also notes the Mets have been in contact with right-hander Jameson Taillon, who spent the last two seasons with the Yankees. Taillon pitched to a solid 3.91 ERA/3.94 FIP and a 1.128 WHIP in 177 innings this season.

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The Mariners are showing interest in Trea Turner and have checked in on the availability of Kolten Wong and Gleyber Torres. President of baseball operations Jerry DiPoto has made it clear that ownership will allow them to sign one of the many marquee middle infielders on the market.

Free agent Evan Longoria says he wants to play for at least one or two more years and is open to going to a competitive team. The 37-year-old once again battled injuries, playing in just 89 games and hitting .244/.315/.451 with 14 homers in 298 plate appearances.

Ronald Acuña Jr. has changed agencies, hiring Magnus Sports to represent him. Acuña’s brothers, Luisangel and Bryan, are both joining Magnus, as is his cousin, Maikel Garcia.

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Andrew Steele-Davis looks at a few non-tendered players that the Mets should look at. He also examines which left-handed relievers the team should target.

Johnluke Chaparro profiles free agent starter Justin Verlander.

James Villani takes a look at the new arms the Mets recently acquired.

On This Date in Mets History

1970: Tommie Agee is awarded a Gold Glove, becoming the first player to earn the honor in both leagues.

1983: After four straight years in which a Dodger won the award, Darryl Strawberry is named the NL Rookie of the Year. Strawberry smacked 26 homers and stole 19 bases while posting an .848 OPS.

Birthdays: Bill Almon (70), Dick Schofield (60), Dan Murray (49), Robert Stock (33)