Broken Man, Broken Contract? Yoenis Cespedes Will Not Return This Season Following Surgery

In 2015, trading for Yoenis Cespedes was the gift that keeps on giving. A key part of the Mets’ playoff run, the team decided to reward him with multiple-year deals, the last one being a four-year, $110 million in 2016. It was considered a true turning point for the team.

My, how times have changed.

While rehabbing following surgery on his heel, Cespedes had a nasty fall on his ranch. A major setback, the Mets announced that the outfielder will be undergoing ankle surgery. It is unknown if horses were involved in the incident. His 2019 season has ended before it even began.

In 2015 and 2016 (189 games), Cespedes hit 48 home runs with slash lines of .287/.337/.604 (57 games in 2015) and .280/.354/.530 (132 games in 2016). Fans will never forget his 17 home runs right when he was traded from the Tigers. Since then, he has only played in 119 games. Now, fans wish they forgot the contract that was signed. The majority of his injuries have come from his hamstrings or ankles.

It is rare when the Mets throw away money like they did for Cespedes. One of the key factors is David Wright’s extended contract. One of the most positive results from this is that Jeff Wilpon has stated some of the value he is owed can be recouped, providing a valuable insurance policy.

Nevertheless, this is considered one of the biggest “what if?” stories in Mets and baseball history. It is unknown if Cespedes will be ready for the 2020 season.