My guess is a little bit of trying to prove himself worth the contract in a huge media market is partially to blame too. He’s almost certainly declining a bit, but I’d be shocked if he just suddenly became a turd.
Were you guys talking about Starling or Ketwl Marte earlier? They both could make sense but different types of deals.
But he’s been a very, very good hitter. I’d have to see a full season of this to start panicking.
Going to be interesting to see how much pressure the panicky fanbase puts on the Mutts new owner/management with all their injuries (and Lindor's struggles) - hope the rebuilding clubs make them overpay if they are going to make early trades.
https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2021/05/mets-trade-rumors-outfield-injuries.html
it hasn't helped that their free agent signing catcher James McCann has been atrocious and unplayable. And they gave him a 4 year deal lol.
The Mets are already thin in their minor leagues, so not sure how much they are going to be willing to part with.
Think it's interesting to look at the current "sellers" mentioned in that article when looking at the Braves' needs. Hadn't realized the Tigers have been using Fulmer as their Closer, but if he's adjusting to that kind of role I wonder if they'd be interested in Waters as the headliner in a deal for Fulmer and Grossman? Would give us another RH late-inning option and a switch-hitting OF, and both are under (relatively cheap) control through NEXT season. Might put AA in a position where he doesn't have to overpay to re-sign Martin AND would provide the LF OF bat for 2022 when Ozuna slides to DH that allows them to take things somewhat slow with Harris unless he shows he really IS the next Acuna and forces his way into the lineup sometime next season.
Have to think the Mutts' folks are on the phone with the Os about OFs 3-4 times a day.
Just hope everybody remembers how he's struggling when the inevitable down season(s) for Acuna come along and his body begins to age. Same goes for Tatis.
Will be interesting to hear how many people say they always had questions about them when that time comes.
They key difference here is that Lindor has been a good bat + great defense at a premium position. That is what has made him a great player. Acuna is an elite hitter. One is more likely to age poorer than the other. But it's still way early to be calling for the demise of Lindor.
https://www.nytimes.com/2021/05/25/sports/baseball/2-million-runs.html
See, this is the type of promotional campaign MLB should be all over, similar to how they were for the millionth in 1975. Not sure if would gain much of a following outside hardcore baseball circles, but surely it would spark at least some curiosity from the general populace. It would be fun, and could only help grow the game.
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