NY Mets rumors: It sounds like Ty France might be too popular to sign

It’s only one rumor and not a complete shock, but potential New York Mets first base target Ty France has reportedly already drawn interest from “multiple teams.” Multiple can technically mean two and the level of interest, as we’re reminded every offseason with the Mets, can be everything from a diehard love affair with a player to a fleeting thought.

Coming off of such a well-rounded year where produced on both sides of the ball, France should be getting a heavy load of attention. He’s similar to Ryan O’Hearn last offseason and not just because he’s coming off of a strong showing with the San Diego Padres. There was a lot to like about O’Hearn’s game, a first baseman who could play the corner outfield in addition to providing above-average defense at first base. He had a good year with the Pittsburgh Pirates while finding his way into a regular right field gig rather than sticking at first base.

With several productive seasons already on his resume, France should be a top target for any first base-needy club in free agency. Jake Bauers is far riskier and comes with the qualifying offer penalties. After those two, Paul Goldschmidt is the best free agent option out there. He’s at an age where he could break down quickly and is only a Band-Aid for a larger hole.

The Mets won’t have an easy time signing Ty France if he’s as popular as it sounds

Thanks largely to Jared Young, the Mets didn’t even have the worst first base situation this past year. The .667 OPS was better than the Seattle Mariners at .662 and the Arizona Diamondbacks way down at .636. The irony of it is the Mariners brought back Josh Naylor and still had the second-worst production at the position.

The Mariners probably won’t be as much of a match to reunite with France as the Diamondbacks would be to seek out his services. Let’s not rule out other moving parts either. Just because a team had good first base production this past year doesn’t mean they won’t move a guy off the position and over to DH. Trade possibilities, as well, create more scenarios for France. What’s more, the Padres don’t exactly have a reason to let him go so easily.

Convincing France to sign with the Mets was never an easy scenario nor perfect if the team actually does have any level of faith in Young. Goldschmidt is actually a far greater match than France as he’d be required to take the right-handed half of a platoon. France has earned everyday duties and a multi-year contract.

The handling of first base last year gives zero indication of what’s in store for the Mets next. They mistreated the position. It never seemed like a priority and one the front office believed anyone could play. Less inclined to pursue Teruaki Sato following the Bo Bichette opt-in, exploring the trade market is feeling more possible with France’s growing popularity.

Spotrac gives him a market value of receiving a 3-year deal worth $16.4 million per season. Not outrageous by any means, it’s the kind of deal another team will more easily beat.

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