Sandy Alderson expects 'some serious conversations' about contract extension with Michael Conforto

The Mets have been very active during the start of MLB free agency, highlighted by additions of James McCann and Trevor May.

And while most of the fans’ attention is turned on what players the Mets could possibly be bringing into the fold, there's still the other issue of retaining star players like Michael Conforto on a long-term deal.

Entering the 2021 season on the final year of his contract, the 27-year-old Conforto is likely headed for a huge payday in the near future. The question, of course, is whether or not it will come from the Mets or from another team.

Speaking with SNY's Gary Apple on Wednesday's Mets Hot Stove, team president Sandy Alderson updated where things stand with a potential new deal for Conforto.

"Well, there have not been talks yet," Alderson said. "We've been, I guess, preoccupied. With all due respect to Michael and Scott Boras, we've been occupied with some other things but I'm sure that we will have those conversations.

"I expect that we'll have some serious conversations. I have no idea where it will go. You know, Scott has a reputation. I think Michael likes to play in New York. He's been a great player ever since we brought him up. And I hope he stays with us. But those talks are yet to come."

Conforto's 2020 season was perhaps the best of his six pro seasons, as he slashed .322/.412/.515 and slugged nine home runs with 31 RBI in 54 games during the shortened campaign. An All-Star in 2017, Conforto's first six seasons have been a bit inconsistent, but he seemed to take a big step forward in 2020.

And just how much could Conforto's next deal be worth? SNY's Jim Duquette speculated on Wednesday's Mets Hot Stove that Conforto could be in line for a deal in the range of $175-200 million.

The Mets still have time to negotiate a long-term deal with Conforto before he reaches the open market, though Boras clients have been far more likely to reach free agency before accepting any deal.