By Sunday 
Business of Baseball: Mets Look to Retain Fan-Favorite Infielder on Short-Term Deal
Weighing Loyalty Against Long-Term Security
The New York Mets have extended a one-year contract offer to veteran infielder José Iglesias, but the ball is now in his court. According to reports, Iglesias is seeking a longer deal, believing his 2024 performance warrants more than just a short-term commitment.
With negotiations at a standstill, both sides are playing a strategic waiting game—one where business and loyalty collide.
A Reliable Veteran Holding Out for More
Iglesias has built a reputation as a dependable glove-first infielder with an underrated bat. His 2024 season proved that age hasn’t slowed him down, and he remains a valuable asset on both sides of the ball.
For the Mets, a one-year deal makes sense. With younger infielders like Brett Baty and Mark Vientos still developing, a short-term commitment allows roster flexibility. Iglesias, however, is looking for stability as he enters the later stages of his career.
How Iglesias Fits into the Mets’ Infield Plans
If he returns, Iglesias would be in the mix for the starting third base job, especially if Vientos transitions to a designated hitter role. With Baty still proving himself at the major league level, Iglesias’ experience could provide much-needed defensive consistency.
Offensively, while he’s not a power hitter, his high contact rate and ability to put the ball in play could be an asset in a Mets lineup that already features heavy hitters like Pete Alonso and Juan Soto.
A Waiting Game with the Market in Play
At this point, the Mets have drawn their line—one year or nothing. For Iglesias, the question is whether another team will offer him the multi-year security he desires.
If the market doesn’t provide what he’s hoping for, a reunion with the Mets remains a real possibility. But until then, both sides are left waiting, balancing financial strategy with on-field needs.