New York Mets linked with All-Star catcher James McCann

The New York Mets have routinely been linked with catcher J.T. Realmuto since even before the start of free agency, but a different name popped up in recent MLB rumors. 

Joel Sherman of the New York Post and FanSided's Robert Murray, among others, reported on Thursday that the Mets could target 30-year-old free agent James McCann. Spending less cash on the one-time All-Star (2019) could, theoretically, allow the Amazins to spend more on a big name such as reigning Cy Young award winner Trevor Bauer or Francisco Lindor if the Mets pull the trigger on a trade for the superstar shortstop of the Cleveland Indians. 

McCann joined the Chicago White Sox in December 2018 and enjoyed two impressive seasons, one of which being the pandemic-shortened 60-game campaign, with the club. Across his last 149 regular-season contests, McCann hit .276 with 25 home runs and 75 RBI, per the league's official website. His .896 OPS in 2020 was the highest, to date, of his career. 

Murray tweeted that it is "increasingly likely" McCann will receive a four-year contract this offseason. MLB insider Jon Heyman named the Mets as the favorites to land McCann. 

On Wednesday, the Mets made their first free-agent signing under new owner Steve Cohen when they acquired 31-year-old right-handed relief pitcher Trevor May.