Mets Weigh Trade Options for Veteran Infielder Jeff McNeil Amidst Roster Shake-Up

New York Mets second baseman Jeff McNeil, a two-time All-Star and batting title winner, is entering the final guaranteed year of his four-year, $50 million contract, sparking debate on whether the team should trade him. Since his 2018 rookie season, McNeil has been a versatile lineup mainstay, playing second base, corner outfield, third base, and even 34 games in center field last season. While he posted an above-average offensive OPS+ of 111 in 2025 (.243/.355/.411) and drew a career-high 49 walks, his batting average and on-base percentage have declined over the past three seasons compared to his first five. With a glut of unproven infield prospects like Brett Baty, Ronny Mauricio, and Jett Williams, and a focus on improving defense, Mets president David Stearns may consider moving the 34-year-old. Despite his versatility in a potential super-utility role, the Mets must weigh the value of a $15.75 million bench player who isn't a true plus defender or power hitter, potentially needing to eat some salary to facilitate a trade to an infield-needy team.