The Mets and David Wright are discussing a seven-year extension — starting in 2014 — that would keep the face of the franchise around through the 2020 season, according to an industry source.
Nevertheless, the talks are still fluid enough that Evan Longoria’s six-year, $100-million extension with the Rays, which the club announced on Monday, could impact the final determination of Wright’s value.
Wright is making $16 million to play for the Mets in 2013, his final season before he’s eligible for free agency. The Mets certainly aren’t going to offer Wright a pay cut, so a seven-year deal would be for no less than $16 million a season — for a total of $112 million — and very likely a tick higher.
A person familiar with Wright talks says it’s important in Wright’s and his agent’s minds to surpass the $137.5 million Johan Santana received.
The Mets are negotiating with both Wright and reigning National League Cy Young Award winner R.A. Dickey, who also can be a free agent after next year. An agreement with Wright appears more likely than one with Dickey.
Additional reporting by Mike Puma
