The Oakland Athletics have made a significant addition to their roster, acquiring veteran utilityman Jeff McNeil from the New York Mets in a trade that marks the latest move in the Mets' offseason overhaul. The deal, which includes the Athletics receiving $5.75 million to help cover McNeil's $15.75 million salary for the 2026 season, also sees the Mets sending minor-league right-hander Yordan Rodríguez to Oakland.
McNeil, who will turn 34 in April, has been a valuable contributor to the Mets since making his major-league debut in 2018. The left-handed-hitting utilityman has won a National League batting title and made two All-Star teams in his eight seasons with the Mets. Last season, he slashed.243 with 12 home runs and a 111 OPS+ in 122 games, logging innings at five different positions plus designated hitter. However, with the Mets looking to improve their defense after a disappointing campaign, McNeil became expendable.
The Mets' decision to trade McNeil is part of a larger effort to revamp their roster, with the team having already acquired Marcus Semien to play second base and signed Jorge Polanco to play first base this offseason. With Brett Baty likely to start at third base and a slew of younger players, including Mark Vientos, Ronny Mauricio, and Luisangel Acuna, rounding out the infield depth chart, McNeil's departure was seen as a necessary move to make way for newer talent. The Mets' offseason has already seen several key players depart, including Edwin Diaz, Pete Alonso, and Brandon Nimmo, and McNeil's trade is the latest in a series of moves aimed at reshaping the team's roster.
The trade of McNeil to the Athletics is a clear indication that the Mets are committed to rebuilding their roster and improving their defense. With a number of younger players waiting in the wings, the team is looking to create opportunities for them to develop and contribute to the team's success.
In Oakland, McNeil is expected to play second base and lengthen a potent lineup that already features American League Rookie of the Year Nick Kurtz, Shea Langeliers, Tyler Soderstrom, Brent Rooker, Jacob Wilson, and Lawrence Butler. The Athletics, who are looking to improve on their 76-86 record in 2025, have only made one other notable addition this offseason, signing veteran reliever Mark Leiter Jr. to a one-year contract. McNeil's acquisition is a significant boost to the team's lineup, and his versatility and experience will be valuable assets as the Athletics look to compete in the American League.
McNeil underwent a procedure to address thoracic outlet syndrome shortly after the Mets' season ended and is expected to be ready for spring training. The Athletics, meanwhile, gave up the 17-year-old Rodríguez, who signed out of Cuba for $400,000 in January, in the trade. Rodríguez pitched in eight games, including one start, in the Dominican Summer League for his first professional experience, posting a 2.93 ERA with 20 strikeouts to eight walks across 15 1/3 innings.
The Mets' trade of McNeil has created an opening in left field, which could be filled by heralded prospect Carson Benge or a veteran acquisition. Free agent Cody Bellinger is among the options the Mets have considered adding this offseason, sources have told ESPN. The team may also look to address other areas of need, including the bullpen and starting rotation, as they continue to rebuild their roster.
The Athletics, meanwhile, will look to integrate McNeil into their lineup and compete in the American League. With a potent lineup and a strong pitching staff, the team has the potential to make a deep playoff run. As the offseason continues to unfold, it will be interesting to see how the Mets and Athletics shape their rosters and prepare for the 2026 season.
Original: ESPN
Image: ESPN
Written by Npsports
