Athletics trade for $50 million Mets' infielder Jeff McNeil

The Athletics haven't made any big moves this offseason, whether it be free agent signings or trade acquisitions.

That is, until now. According to ESPN's Jeff Passan, the Athletics are making a trade with the New York Mets for second baseman Jeff McNeil.

This is an interesting trade, as Passan further added, the Mets are making this deal a lot easier financially for the A's by taking on some of his $15.75 million salary and $2 million buyout next offseason.

A's swing trade with Mets for Jeff McNeil

"Trade news: The A's are acquiring second baseman Jeff McNeil from the New York Mets, sources tell ESPN," Passan reported.

This trade lands the A's an infielder to take over at second base, and rounds out their infield with Nick Kurtz, Jacob Wilson, and Max Muncy.

Passan followed up that report with a reveal that the Mets are paying down part of his $15.75 million salary to help cover the trade's cost for the Athletics.

Heading back to the Mets in this trade is a rookie-ball arm from the A's farm system, one who's a ways away from a Major League stint.

More: Athletics sign former Nationals breakout star from Mets system

The A's are adding a veteran presence to a young and upcoming core of players. This is a quality trade for the Athletics, as they get to bring in a veteran voice to a young core of players at a very cheap cost.

The prospect heading to the Mets won't be one of their top prospects, while the A's are getting an infielder who's a two-time All-Star, and coming off a decent season with the Mets.

In 2025, McNeil hit .243 with 12 home runs, 97 hits, 2.0 bWAR, and a .746 OPS, which is the best he's had since his batting title season in 2022.

The eight-year veteran has been with the Mets since his debut in 2018, and now, he's heading out West to join the Athletics and their young roster.

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• Athletics could shock everyone by signing this top arm in free agency, per ESPN insider
• Athletics trying to trade former Mets, Yankees $67 million starter
• Ex-Cy Young Award winner Sandy Alcantara named a trade target for the Athletics