Francisco Lindor, a shortstop for the New York Mets, finished second in the 2024 National League MVP vote, trailing designated hitter Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Dodgers. Lindor won his fourth Silver Slugger Award, posting an.844 OPS while driving in 91 runs and swiping 29 bases. Lindor, one of baseball’s best defensive shortstops, created an exceptional middle infield tandem with slick-fielding second baseman Jose Iglesias.
Iglesias had a career year offensively, recording a 137 OPS+ in 291 plate appearances. Iglesias, now a free agent, is not anticipated to return to New York, as Mets general manager David Stearns has essentially confirmed.
Speaking to media on Wednesday, Stearns stated that New York intends to enter the 2025 season with its existing roster, emphasizing 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,” Mr. Stearns said. “It’s important for us to have some roster flexibility with that spot.”
Following the announcement, Lindor posted a three-word Instagram message to Iglesias, who reacted. “Muerto el pollo,” Lindor wrote in Spanish. “Miss you bro,” Iglesias said.
Iglesias made a significant impact in New York, with the second-highest OPS (.830) of his 12-year MLB career and first when subtracting the truncated 2020 season. The Cuban second baseman was also a fan favourite, and he appeared to be well-liked by his teammates and coaches.
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