Francisco Alvarez and Mark Vientos Approach Crossroads of Pre-Arbitration Extensions #1
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As the New York Mets prepare for the 2024 season, two of their brightest young stars, Francisco Alvarez and Mark Vientos, find themselves at a pivotal moment in their careers. Both players are eligible for pre-arbitration contract extensions, but the path to a long-term deal remains uncertain.
Alvarez, the Mets’ highly touted catcher, is focused on bouncing back after a challenging 2023 season. Despite being one of baseball’s top prospects, Alvarez has yet to fully realize his potential at https://www.storenymets.com/collections/jeff-mcneil-jersey the Major League level. When asked about the possibility of an extension, Alvarez remained relaxed, emphasizing his youth and the time he has to develop. “I’m young,” he said. “I don’t have to rush.”
Meanwhile, Vientos, who enjoyed a breakout 2024 campaign, is open to the idea of staying in New York long-term. The third baseman, who hit 27 home runs and delivered clutch performances in the postseason, expressed his love for the organization and the city. “I like it here,” Vientos said. “I love playing in New York. I would love to continue playing with them for sure.”
For players with fewer than three years of service time, like Alvarez and Vientos, pre-arbitration extensions offer financial security in exchange for potentially lower earnings compared to what they could command in free agency. However, these deals require mutual interest from both the player and the team. The Mets, currently above MLB’s highest Competitive Balance Tax threshold, face financial constraints that make such extensions less appealing. Every dollar spent is taxed at 110%, reducing the incentive to lock in young players early.
David Stearns, the Mets’ president of baseball operations, acknowledged the challenges of negotiating these deals. “Philosophically, I’m open to those types of deals,” Stearns said. “But they’re difficult to put together, which is why they don’t happen often.”
For now, the Mets retain control over Alvarez for four more seasons and Vientos for five. The 2024 season will be crucial for both players as they look to solidify their value. Alvarez aims to improve his batting average and power numbers, while Vientos seeks to build on his All-Star-caliber performance and prove he can https://www.storenymets.com/collections/ryne-stanek-jersey sustain success over a full 162-game season.
As the Mets continue to build around their young core, the futures of Alvarez and Vientos will be key storylines to watch. Whether through extensions or continued development, both players have the potential to become cornerstones of the franchise for years to come. Stay tuned as the Mets’ young stars take the field this season, aiming to make their mark and secure their place in Queens!