Mets Morning News: Stuck in Yoenis Cespedes limbo

Meet the Mets

Yoenis Cespedes may still be a free agent, but a pair of developments indicated he may soon reach a decision. Despite having a crowded outfield as is, the Nationals were said to offer Cespedes a five-year contract worth at least $100 million. The Daily News was quick to jump on this update with an outlandish cover.

The Mets don't entirely appear to be out of the picture, however. Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports reported that Cespedes is torn between Washington's offer and a reunion with the Mets. According to Rosenthal, Cespedes's lead agent is scheduled to speak with  the Mets' front office today.

ESPN's Buster Olney added that Cespedes and the Mets are currently discussing a three-year deal with an opportunity for the slugger to opt out after the first year.

Ken Davidoff of the New York Post discussed the potential consequences of Cespedes signing with a division rival.

Jared Diamond of the Wall Street Journal echoed Davidoff's sentiments, lamenting the small-market approach each New York team has taken this offseason.

Ted Berg of USA Today explained *sigh* that Tinder is not a valid source to determine Cespedes's destination in free agency.

Around the Majors

The National League may be getting closer to incorporating a DH. According to David Lennon of Newsday, the issue will be addressed in the MLB's upcoming Collective Bargaining Agreement.

Because July 31 is a Sunday this year, the MLB Trade Deadline will arrive on August 1 instead.

Steve Pearce, a right-handed utilityman connected with the Mets at points during the offseason, signed a one-year deal with the Rays.

After a lost 2015 season, Wandy Rodriguez will re-join the Astros in spring training.

Charlie Blackmon of the Rockies made a cameo appearance at last night's Denver Nuggets game, hitting a backwards half-court shot to the crowd's delight.

This Date in Mets History

On this date in 1996, the Mets acquired Bernard Gilkey from the Cardinals. Gilkey's stint with the Mets will largely be remembered for his monstrous 1996 campaign, as well as his cameo in Men in Black.

Happy 52nd birthday to former Met Wayne Kirby!