New York Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor. Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports

Mets players confident Francisco Lindor will sign long-term contract?

By Zac Wassink | Last updated 3/29/21

The countdown toward Thursday's Opening Day action and the expiration of contract talks between four-time All-Star shortstop Francisco Lindor and the New York Mets ticks on, but it appears at least some inside New York's clubhouse aren't concerned.

Right-hander Taijuan Walker got the start for Monday afternoon's spring training game against the St. Louis Cardinals and then provided a positive update for Mets fans on Lindor's future when speaking with reporters:

Taijuan Walker expresses optimism on the potential Francisco Lindor extension: “I think it’s going to work out. I think everyone knows it’s going to work out,” he said.
— Deesha (@DeeshaThosar) March 29, 2021

Lindor is set to become a free agent after the 2021 season and has repeatedly said he won't negotiate past Opening Day. Reports surfaced last week the two sides weren't "currently close on what constitutes a fair price," but Mets owner Steve Cohen had dinner with Lindor on Saturday night, a development that seemed to indicate a long-term deal was imminent.

Not so fast, though, as SNY's Andy Martino reported on Monday afternoon that "the sides are simply not on the verge of a deal at this time." Martino added the Mets have offered Lindor more than $300 million.

Cohen playfully addressed the subject via Twitter: