New York Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor finished second in 2024 National League MVP voting behind Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani. Winning his fourth Silver Slugger award, Lindor posted an .844 OPS while driving in 91 runs and stealing 29 bases.
Also one of the best defensive shortstops in baseball, Lindor formed an elite middle infield duo with slick fielding second baseman Jose Iglesias. Having a breakout year offensively, Iglesias posted a 137 OPS+ in 291 plate appearances.
Now a free agent, Iglesias is not expected to return to New York after Mets general manager David Stearns essentially confirmed this to be the case.
Speaking with reporters on Wednesday, Stearns said New York is planning to enter the 2025 season with its current collection of players, prioritizing youth over the 35-year-old Iglesias.
“I think where we are now for that role on our team, it’s important for us to keep some avenues open for some of our younger players,” Stearns said. “It’s important for us to have some roster flexibility with that spot.”
David Stearns was asked about not bringing back Jose Iglesias
"I think where we are now for that role on our team, it's important for us to keep some avenues open for some of our younger players. It's important for us to have some roster flexibility with that spot" pic.twitter.com/u0UFUvYnoU
— SNY Mets (@SNY_Mets) February 12, 2025
Following this news, Lindor sent a three-word message to Iglesias on Instagram that the 2015 All-Star infielder responded to.
“Muerto el pollo,” Lindor wrote in Spanish.
“Miss you bro,” Iglesias responded.
Posting the second-highest OPS (.830) of his 12-year MLB career, and first when excluding the shortened 2020 season, Iglesias made a strong impact in New York. Also a fan favorite, the Cuban second baseman was seemingly beloved in the clubhouse by his teammates and coaches.
