3 Mets free agent targets who turned down better or equal offers to sign elsewhere

3) Mets free agent target who turned down more money to sign elsewhere: Andrew McCutchen
Andrew McCutchen would've been a perfect fit for the Mets fourth outfielder spot. New York opted to sign Tommy Pham who's a fine player, but McCutchen's ability to hit lefties while being a former MVP would've been such a fun signing.
McCutchen opted to sign with the Pirates for one year and $5 million dollars. The Mets reportedly offered him more than that.
Per source: Andrew McCutchen was offered same deal from the Minnesota Twins and more from New York Mets who really wanted him.
— Kody Duncan (@KodyDuncanPGH) January 13, 2023
But the Pirates guaranteed more playing time and he wants to be home.
The role that the Mets had for McCutchen was pretty clear. He was going to be the fourth outfielder, and would start against lefties in the DH spot. That's not a bad gig, and it was enough to get Tommy Pham to sign. The problem is, the Pirates gave him an opportunity at an everyday role, something he'd never have if he signed with the Mets.
McCutchen turning down more money to play more on a bad team isn't something I'd do, but I can't fault him too much for wanting to return home.
Hopefully Pham makes missing out on McCutchen not sting, but for now, it's pretty annoying.
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