2 Mets free agents fattening their next contracts in the playoffs, 1 losing cash

Jose Iglesias is struggle and might need to learn some recipes to make at home

It has not been a productive postseason for Jose Iglesias. The starting second baseman throughout and defensive upgrade at third base in place of Mark Vientos late, Candelita is just 9 for 40 with zero extra base hits. He is far from the biggest trouble with the Mets offense. Francisco Alvarez looks like he’s trying to chop down a tree with some of his swings.

After what was such a fantastic regular season filled with magic and statistics that no one can ignore, the slump Iglesias has been in this postseason does come as a bit of a surprise. Is it age? Playing every inning? Going up against better pitching each day?

Whatever it is, the team’s Little Engine That Could hasn’t done himself any favors with his next free agent contract. In a regular season that should have at least earned him the bulk of starts with some team as a second baseman or shortstop, he’s now looking more like the player the Mets thought they were getting: a quality backup one.

A twist of fate some fans might enjoy, it could mean he’ll be more reasonably priced. The Mets could use a player like him both in ability and leadership next season. Use him against the lefty pitchers and give him days off whenever the team faces a righty. This is the man who gave us OMG. We’ll certainly take a turnaround in the playoffs if it means letting him go. It’s only a consolation prize for him to re-sign because his playoff struggles reminded other executives he’s probably not suited for more than a part-time role.