The Mets and David Wright’s agents are talking, but as of yesterday there was no indication the sides were near agreement on a new contract for the All-Star third baseman.
But a procedural step was taken yesterday when the Mets exercised their 2013 option on Wright for $16 million. Also, the Mets picked up R.A. Dickey’s option for $5 million.
The team still is hoping for a quick resolution to Wright’s long-term situation, which has been described by an organizational source as the foundation of the Mets’ offseason plans.
Wright has said he will not negotiate with the Mets once spring training begins, meaning he would test free agency next winter if a deal can’t be struck this offseason.
Wright, who turns 30 in December, is believed to be seeking a seven-year deal in the $125 million range.
If next year’s option is factored in, the total package could surpass the $137.5 million contract Johan Santana received before the 2008 season, giving Wright the largest contract in franchise history.
Earlier this month, a source said it was “conceiveable” the Mets would have deals in place with Wright and Dickey, at least in principal, by the start of the World Series. But the Mets delayed the process and did not begin substantial talks with Wright’s agents, Sam and Seth Levinson, until this week. Discussions with Dickey’s representative, Bo McKinnis, have been limited to this point.
The 38-year-old Dickey is expected to seek a package that would keep him signed through the 2015 season and surpass $30 million in total value, including the option.