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The dynamic complexity of MLB means that all the difference between a great season and a spectacular one is landing a star player. Francisco Lindor’s mega-deal with the New York Mets could very well become one of the best deals in the history of the sport. Put it this way: a performance by Lindor in the field that has not only met but outdone expectations makes his $341 million contract seem like a bargain. It is an astonishing example of the hitting of a home run by a franchise in the world of sports contracts.

A Game-Changer for the New York Mets

With a.843 OPS, 30 home runs, and 26 swiped bags, he’s firmly in the running for the National League MVP award. His defense has also been top-notch, and he’s on pace to take his third Gold Glove award. Much more than any one particular stat, Lindor has impacted the game. On and off the field, his leadership and energy have revitalized the Mets and their fans.

Lindor agreed to a ten-year, $341 million deal with the Mets, on March 31, 2021. The contract was the largest in Mets history at the time it was signed. However, recent analysis shows the Mets might get an absolute steal of a deal. Per FanGraphs, Lindor’s contributions have been worth $182.7 million so far. That number far exceeds the $124.6 million he has earned from the Mets up to this point.

Crunching the Numbers

Let’s get into some numbers regarding just how valuable Lindor has been. In this case, Lindor’s value sits at $184.2 million over his first four seasons with the Mets. Broken down annually, that’s an astonishing $46.05 million per year. By comparison, he now earns $34.1 million annually, excluding a $21 million signing bonus. That is to say, Lindor has been worth many times over this pay grade.

While these numbers illustrate his on-field success, they are not indicative of it all. His presence in the clubhouse, leadership, and energy go a long way in explaining the Mets’ success. Such intangibles are hard to quantify but are of the essence for team chemistry and performance. There is little doubt that with Lindor, morale and effectiveness increase within the team.

In the end, Francisco Lindor’s deal with the Mets is set up to be one of the best bargains in baseball. The level at which this man has performed, led, and bought into being a major cog for the Mets has meant so much more than just adding a star player, he’s provided them with a cornerstone for success. It is an exciting time to be a Mets fan, knowing the biggest superstar on your team is delivering in a big way.

This article first appeared on Total Apex Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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