Mets Morning News: Mutual declines

Meet the Mets

The Mets declined to exercise their team option on Kevin Pillar’s contract, which wasn’t that surprising. Somewhat more surprising, however, was Pillar declining his player option, making him a free agent.

Andy Martino reported Yankee’s assistant GM Jean Afterman declined to interview for a front-office position with the Mets last week.

Red Sox assistant GM Raquel Ferreira also declined to interview for the GM position.

Sandy Alderson will represent the Mets at Monday’s GM meetings, as the Mets have no current path to hiring a new president of baseball operations.

Mets legend and fashion icon Tsuyoshi “Big Boss” Shinjo gave his first press conference as the new manager of the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters.

Around the National League East

Adam Duvall declined his mutual option with the Braves.

Keith Law joined Fish Stripes to discuss the Marlins’ farm system.

The Phillies declined mutual options on Andrew McCutchen and Obdubel Herrera.

Around Major League Baseball

The Astros picked up Yuli Gurriel’s team option for next season.

The Indians picked up José Ramirez’s $12 million team option for next season.

Coming off the best season of his career, Nick Castellanos unsurprisingly opted out of his contract with the Reds and elected free agency.

Charlie Blackmon will return to the Rockies, picking up his $21 million option for next season.

The Rockies also declined a team option on Ian Desmond, who has opted out of the last two seasons.

The Yankees mutually declined options on Brett Gardner and Darren O’Day, making both players free agents.

Yesterday at Amazin’ Avenue

Kory reviewed Seth Lugo’s somewhat disappointing season.

Brian and Jack discuss the Mets’ front office hiring struggles in the latest episode of Amazin’ Avenue Audio (The Show).

This Date in Mets History

Darryl Strawberry declared free agency 31 years ago today, carving a path for his return to Los Angeles.

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