April 5th, 2021
FLUSHING, N.Y., The New York Mets today announced that the team has agreed to terms with shortstop Francisco Lindor on a 10-year contract extension beginning in 2022.
“Today is a great day for the Mets, Mets fans everywhere, Francisco, his teammates and his family,” Owner, Chairman and CEO Steve Cohen said. “Having spent time with Francisco during spring training, he’s an extraordinary talent on the field and an exceptional person off it. This is a great start to opening the season and a big step toward our pursuit of sustained winning… and championships.”
“Francisco brings so much to the Mets – as a player and leader,” said Mets President Sandy Alderson. “His reputation for both preceded him when he joined us and he’s exceeded all of our expectations. His abilities and presence will be critical to our success going forward. We’re thrilled that Francisco will be a Met for years to come.”
Lindor, 27, is a four-time All-Star (2016-2019), a two-time Gold Glove Award winner (2016, 2019), including the American League Platinum Glove for the best overall defender in 2016 and a two-time Silver Slugger (2017, 2018).
“So much thanks has to first go to Steve and Alex Cohen, as well as Sandy for their hard work and commitment to winning,” said Lindor. “I’m thrilled and blessed to part of this organization for years to come. Everyone has welcomed me and my family with open arms. I’m beyond excited to go out and play for Mets fans and help bring a championship to Queens.”
He was acquired by the Mets on January 7 along with right-handed pitcher Carlos Carrasco from Cleveland in exchange for infielders Andrés Giménez and Amed Rosario as well as minor leaguers Josh Wolf and Isaiah Greene.
The 5-11, 190-pounder ranks third in the majors with 258 extra-base hits since 2017. He ranks third in runs scored (359), fifth in hits (592), tied for 12th in homers (111) and 17th in stolen bases (68) during that span.
Lindor finished in the top 15 in the American League Most Valuable Player voting each year from 2016-2019. Since 2016, Lindor has a 47.6 UZR (Ultimate Zone Rating) according to FanGraphs, which is the third-highest rating among all players behind Mookie Betts and Andrelton Simmons.
Lindor has slashed .285/.346/.488 with 191 doubles, 138 homers, 411 RBI and 99 stolen bases in 777 games during his six-year career with Cleveland.
COURTESY NY METS & MLBpressbox.com
