Mets Morning News: The Mets have a new catcher and a new GM

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The Mets signed catcher James McCann to a four-year deal just north of $40 million.

Marcus Stroman took to Twitter to express his enthusiasm for the signing.

McCann has elevated himself with the bat over the past two seasons, but he has always hit lefties well—something the Mets desperately need, writes Tim Britton of The Athletic. He also took a look at McCann’s improved pitch-framing skills, particularly in the bottom of the zone, thanks to work with Jerry Narron last winter.

Jesse Spector of Deadspin writes that while the McCann deal might be exciting, passing on J.T. Realmuto to hopefully get close to the same production for less does bring back the ghost of Wilpon Christmases past. Although it could work out in the end, “there’s also a lot of Todd Frazier/Anthony Swarzak/Jason Vargas potential here,” opines Spector.

The Mets also extended an offer to Diamondbacks assistant general manager Jared Porter for the role of general manager.

Tim Britton of The Athletic provided the details of Porter’s career in baseball so far and why so many in the game are praising the hire.

All told, it was an exciting day for the Mets as the new regime begins to take shape and look toward next offseason steps. The Mets are still seen as the favorite to sign George Springer.

Steve Cohen had quite the busy day yesterday. In addition to signing off on the McCann deal and hiring a GM, Cohen was at Citi Field with his wife Alex greeting Mets season ticket holders.

Around the National League East

Peter Abraham of the Boston Globe takes a look at what former Red Sox executive Dave Dombrowski will be facing at the helm of the Phillies organization.

Randy Miller of NJ.com looks back at the Braves passing over Barry Bonds in favor of Greg Maddux.

Former Marlin Adam Conley has signed with the Rakuten Golden Eagles of Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB).

Around Major League Baseball

Joel Sherman explores potential complicating factors that may impede a Francisco Lindor trade.

MLB.com explores potential Blake Snell trade partners.

Executive and longtime scout Gene Watson is leaving the Royals organization to join the Angels front office under new GM Perry Minasian.

Justin Turner is reportedly seeking a three-year deal.

Yesterday at Amazin’ Avenue

Brian Salvatore covered the James McCann signing and Chris McShane wrote about the Jared Porter hire.

This Date in Mets History

The Mets signed free agent Rickey Henderson on this date in 1998. Hopefully that bodes well for another big signing in 2020.