3 unanticipated MLB teams who could spoil the NY Mets offseason plans after all

When the New York Mets got into the Hot Stove ring, we knew some of the ones they’d battle. The big market ball clubs coming off of playoff appearances or even just willing to spend just about every winter they can would do their best to make sure free agents or trade candidates land in their pocket rather than the Mets’.

This hasn’t been an easy to predict offseason. We’ve already seen three unanticipated MLB teams show signs that, while the Mets mull over their next move, can come in and play spoiler with a player or two.

1) Athletics

No city, no problem. The Athletics did the Mets a favor by taking Jeff McNeil away and eating $10 million of his salary for the coming season. It has freed up some space for David Stearns to make an additional move both financially and with the added roster spot available.

McNeil was the most easy to predict trade candidate. He didn’t fit and the addition of Marcus Semien in November only confirmed his days with the Mets were complete. Adding his salary shouldn’t be the last thing they do in an attempt to build a more competent roster.

The wallets didn’t close yet with young slugger Tyler Soderstrom receiving a 7-year extension worth at least $86 million. Escalators in his contract can award him with around another $50 million more based on performance. They didn’t have to do this. However, by agreeing to an early extension with one of their rising stars, the Athletics opened up the idea that they’re going to build something better and spend money before their inevitable move to Las Vegas.

The Athletics seem unlikely to reel in any of the remaining huge targets the Mets may be eyeing. Expect them to maybe be the winner in the sweepstakes for one of the mid-tier pieces like a reliever or outfielder the Mets could use.