Overview
- New York sent Jeff McNeil to Oakland for 17-year-old right-hander Yordan Rodriguez, with the Mets covering $5.75 million of McNeil’s 2026 salary and a $2 million buyout if his 2027 option is declined.
- Oakland GM David Frost called McNeil a “really good fit” and has him penciled in at second base, citing his experience and defensive versatility.
- Jorge Polanco signed a two-year, $40 million deal and said the Mets plan to use him primarily at first base with additional DH time and occasional infield work.
- Following the McNeil deal, multiple outlets report the Mets are targeting a right-handed bat—potentially with first-base capability—while showing reluctance to commit to long-term free-agent contracts.
- Team guidance and league reporting note continued pursuit of rotation help with an emphasis on innings and playoff-caliber impact, as the club reshapes its core and prepares larger roles for top prospects.