Over the past few days, the New York Mets have had a lot of rumors come out about the atmosphere in the clubhouse. And after the Francisco Lindor and Jeff McNeil news came out, a trade was expected sooner or later. And the time is now.

“A’s receive: Jeff McNeil and $5.75 million (to help cover his $15.75 million salary; the Mets also would pay his $2 million buyout if his option isn’t exercised),” reported MLB insider Jeff Passan.

The New York Mets traded Jeff McNeil to the Oakland Athletics in a deal reported by ESPN’s Jeff Passan. The Mets paid the A’s McNeil and $5.75 million to help cover part of his $15.75 million salary, with the Mets agreeing to a $2 million buyout if they decline his 2027 option. In return, the Mets acquired right-handed pitcher Yordan Rodriguez, a young prospect with potential for future rotation depth.

The trade clears McNeil’s salary from the Mets while giving the Athletics a proven contact hitter for their lineup.

The trade followed ongoing clubhouse tensions, including a verbal confrontation between McNeil and shortstop Francisco Lindor on June 20 against the Phillies. Lindor and McNeil had prior incidents, including a 2021 altercation over a defensive play that drew media attention. The Mets valued Lindor more due to his six remaining contract years and consistent top-10 NL MVP finishes.

With Marcus Semien now joining the team, McNeil was expected to stabilize the infield and reduce conflicts with his move to the outfield or departure.

The deal benefits both teams by addressing immediate needs while providing financial and roster flexibility for the Mets. The Athletics gain a reliable bat in McNeil, partially subsidized, improving their offensive depth immediately. The Mets add Rodriguez, enhancing their pitching pipeline and offering potential long-term rotation support.

Both organizations also resolve internal challenges, allowing players to focus on performance without lingering distractions.

Jeff McNeil’s departure finally closes the chapter on his tense history with Francisco Lindor. Yordan Rodriguez now carries the weight of a rebuilding Mets pitching staff, hope in his arm. The trade proves even high-paid stars cannot escape clubhouse politics, no matter how quietly they grind.

Before things get out of hand, the Mets’ president should solve the problem between Lindor and Soto

Steve Cohen might be the richest man in baseball, but even a billion-dollar wallet can’t buy smooth clubhouse vibes. In Queens, whispers of icy glances and muted nods have reached the top, and it’s clear that Lindor and Soto aren’t exactly swapping high-fives in the dugout. Someone has to step in before sarcasm turns into full-blown dysfunction.

Whispers of tension between Francisco Lindor and Juan Soto have circulated throughout the Mets clubhouse in 2025, raising concerns among fans and analysts.

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The team insists publicly that nothing is wrong, but subtle signs suggest discomfort may affect communication and morale during games. Both players are central to the Mets’ plans, with Lindor earning $35 million annually and Soto carrying a $45 million contract through 2026.

Addressing any friction is crucial, as the Mets finished the season as the most disappointing team in 2025, failing to meet expectations.

Steve Cohen, having invested more than $1 billion in the franchise, could directly involve himself in resolving potential issues between Lindor and Soto. A private meeting at his home could clarify expectations and ensure that both players align on team goals for 2026. Resolving tension would allow the duo to focus on performance, potentially improving cohesion and communication on the field.

If Lindor and Soto cannot align, even Steve Cohen’s billion-dollar patience might wear thin quickly. Fans are watching every glance and gesture, expecting leadership to transform tension into productive teamwork immediately. The Mets’ future depends on resolving this quietly before subtle whispers turn into public embarrassment for everyone involved.