PORT ST. LUCIE — The Mets are heading toward a long-term relationship with Jon Niese.
According to a source, the two sides are in the latter stages of negotiating a five-year contract that could land in the $25 million-$30 million range. The sides haven’t finalized the dollar amount, according to the source.
Niese is scheduled to become a free agent after the 2015 season, but would become arbitration eligible for the first time after this season. By signing Niese to an extension early, the Mets would be gambling they can save money over the the long haul.
The lefty went 11-11 with a 4.40 ERA last season, and his stock continues to rise.
Earlier this week, a team source indicated the Mets already have begun internal discussions about picking up R.A. Dickey’s 2013 option. The team then likely would attempt to lock up Dickey for at least 2014 with perhaps a club option for 2015.