The Mets plan to start negotiations with star third baseman David Wright at around $100 million, according to a CBSSports.com report.
The team is hoping they can reach a deal with Wright that will make him a “Met for life,” a person with knowledge of the team’s thinking told the website. The Mets do have some wiggle room with the Madoff mess mostly behind them, and The Post reported that Wright is seeking a deal worth around seven years and $125 million.
The Mets hold options for Wright and knuckleballer R.A. Dickey, but have reached out to both in recent days in hopes of coming to terms on contract extensions. The report says the team will give it at least a month of negotiations before exercising the options or considering trade possibilities. Wright’s option is worth $16 million for 2013, while the 37-year-old Dickey has a $5 million option.
The Mets are hoping to limit Dickey’s extension unless they get a discount. Wright’s deal may include team options at the end of the contract.