Report: Mets haven't had contract talks with Cespedes

With the offseason rapidly approaching, it appears the free-agent market is going to get a huge boost in value.

New York Mets outfielder Yoenis Cespedes is expected to opt out of his contract with the team no later than Saturday, and the Mets haven't held discussions with their slugger about an extension, according to ESPN's Adam Rubin.

The organization is reportedly doubtful he'll re-sign with the team after he hits the open market, convinced the outfielder wants to earn a long-term deal. Therein lies the rub, as the Mets are hesitant to offer a contract of four or more years, and want to avoid any deals that include opt-outs, Rubin notes.

The club may now shift its attention to the free-agent market, as Cespedes' potential departure would leave a significant vacancy in their lineup and corner outfield, though the team does have a friendly $13-million club option on Jay Bruce that it will likely exercise.

Cespedes put together another solid season for the Mets in 2016, batting .280/.354/.530 and leading the team in home runs (31), RBIs (86), and slugging (.530), to go along with the National League's best wRC+ among qualified outfielders at 134.