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The New York Mets may have already decided that Francisco Lindor’s future lies elsewhere, but it doesn’t appear that move will happen before this season’s MLB trade deadline. According to MLB insider Bob Nightengale, rival executives around baseball believe the Mets are more likely to trade Lindor this winter rather than during the current season. The report provides more clarity after weeks of speculation surrounding one of the biggest names on the trade market.
MORE: MLB Power Rankings after the 2026 All-Star break
Francisco Lindor runs as he rounds third base before scoring, Thursday, March 26, 2026. The Mets went on to beat the Pirates, 11-7.
The Mets recently made headlines by signaling they are in sell mode, reportedly informing rival clubs that only five players in the organization are considered untouchable, including superstar Juan Soto.
Notably absent from that list was Lindor. That revelation immediately sparked speculation that the veteran shortstop could be moved before the trade deadline. However, Nightingale’s latest report suggests the organization is willing to be patient.
Instead of rushing into a deal now, the Mets appear content to wait until the offseason when the market could be much more favorable.
Feb 19, 2026; Port St. Lucie, FL, USA; New York Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor (12) poses for a photo during media day at Clover Park. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
From the Mets’ perspective, waiting is a logical approach. Lindor hasn’t enjoyed the type of season that has defined most of his career. Injuries have limited his impact, and he has also struggled defensively at times—an unusual development for a player widely regarded as one of baseball’s elite defensive shortstops.
Because of those factors, his trade value is likely lower than it has been in years. Trading him now would almost certainly mean accepting less than the organization believes he’s worth. For a player with Lindor’s résumé and long-term contract, that simply isn’t an ideal situation.
By keeping Lindor through the remainder of the season, the Mets give him an opportunity to remind the league why he’s been one of baseball’s premier all-around players for nearly a decade.
A strong finish at the plate, combined with improved defense and good health, could significantly increase his value heading into the offseason. That would likely create a larger pool of interested teams and improve New York’s chances of receiving a stronger return in any potential trade.
If the Mets ultimately decide to move on from Lindor, doing so this winter appears to be the smarter path. Rather than selling low at the deadline, they’ll have several more months to let one of their biggest stars rebuild his value before making what could become one of the biggest trades of the offseason.
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MORE: MLB Power Rankings after the 2026 All-Star break
Deadline Trade Appears Unlikely
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Francisco Lindor runs as he rounds third base before scoring, Thursday, March 26, 2026. The Mets went on to beat the Pirates, 11-7.
The Mets recently made headlines by signaling they are in sell mode, reportedly informing rival clubs that only five players in the organization are considered untouchable, including superstar Juan Soto.
Notably absent from that list was Lindor. That revelation immediately sparked speculation that the veteran shortstop could be moved before the trade deadline. However, Nightingale’s latest report suggests the organization is willing to be patient.
Instead of rushing into a deal now, the Mets appear content to wait until the offseason when the market could be much more favorable.
Selling Low Doesn’t Make Much Sense
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Feb 19, 2026; Port St. Lucie, FL, USA; New York Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor (12) poses for a photo during media day at Clover Park. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
From the Mets’ perspective, waiting is a logical approach. Lindor hasn’t enjoyed the type of season that has defined most of his career. Injuries have limited his impact, and he has also struggled defensively at times—an unusual development for a player widely regarded as one of baseball’s elite defensive shortstops.
Because of those factors, his trade value is likely lower than it has been in years. Trading him now would almost certainly mean accepting less than the organization believes he’s worth. For a player with Lindor’s résumé and long-term contract, that simply isn’t an ideal situation.
Opportunity to Rebuild His Value
By keeping Lindor through the remainder of the season, the Mets give him an opportunity to remind the league why he’s been one of baseball’s premier all-around players for nearly a decade.
A strong finish at the plate, combined with improved defense and good health, could significantly increase his value heading into the offseason. That would likely create a larger pool of interested teams and improve New York’s chances of receiving a stronger return in any potential trade.
If the Mets ultimately decide to move on from Lindor, doing so this winter appears to be the smarter path. Rather than selling low at the deadline, they’ll have several more months to let one of their biggest stars rebuild his value before making what could become one of the biggest trades of the offseason.
— Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories on The Big Lead —
Continue reading...
