If the Mets can’t lock him up with an extension, Francisco Lindor can find out the next outdoors exactly where he’s one of the best shortstops.
Meanwhile, the Mets’ new superstar believes he already knows the answer.
‘In general? I, ”Lindor told Sports Illustrated when asked who is the best shortstop. “Because I will do it every day. I count on myself every day. Every dear day. Trevor story? I like to watch him. We talk hitting and defending. The best hands on the shortstop position are Freddy Galvis and Andrelton Simmons. Best hits? When [Corey] Seager is at his level. I think he’s the best hitter.
“If we go from tool to tool, a lot of it is better than me. [Fernando] Tatis [Jr.]? He is incredible. And [Javier] Báez? I’ve been playing against Báez since I was a child and it’s like, ‘Bro, how are you?’
‘There is such a good balance between self-confidence and hard work. Sometimes it’s hard for me to admit to myself who the best shortstop is. Why? Because of that fine balance. I am confident. I think I’m the best shortstop. ”
The Mets are hoping to sign Lindor in extra time before he can become a free agent next winter, after negotiating a deal with the Indians for him and Carlos Carrasco in January.
But if Lindor gets to the open market, he will join a star-studded class of shortstops with free agencies that are expected to include Seager, Story, Baez and Carlos Correa.
For now, the 27-year-old Lindor – a four-time All-Star, two-time gold glove shortstop and twice a Silver Slugger – is preparing for the 2021 season, his first in a Mets uniform after a downward year during the abbreviated 2020.