Report: Mets, Slugger Lucas Duda Discussing Long-Term Contract Extension
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- The Mets and first baseman Lucas Duda are discussing a long-term contract extension, according to the New York Post.
The 29-year-old slugger told the newspaper that talks are "preliminary stuff and still in the works."
The New York Post reports that Dan Horwits, Duda's agent, has been negotiating with the Mets in camp. But if a deal is not finalized by opening day next week, the talks will be put on hold until after the season.
Duda will earn $4.2 million in 2015 and won't be eligible for free agency until after the 2017 season.
"New York gave me the shot to play in the big leagues," Duda told reporters. "It's definitely a first-class organization. Unbelievable players, unbelievable staff. I'm blessed to be in the position that I am."
The left-handed hitter had a breakout campaign in 2014. After general manager Sandy Alderson essentially chose him over Ike Davis -- shipping Davis to Pittsburgh -- Duda rewarded his GM for his decision. In 153 games he hit 30 homers, ripped 27 doubles and drove in 92 runs.
He only hit .253, but posted a .349 on-base percentage while playing a respectable first base.
The Southern California product was drafted in the seventh round by the Mets in 2007, and debuted with the club in 2010.
"I haven't seen a ball come off the bat like that since a young Cliff Floyd," assistant hitting coach Pat Roessler said, according to the newspaper. "I haven't seen exit velocity like that in a long time."
Added new hitting coach Kevin Long: "He's going to do damage. He has sick pop."
Duda is 9-for-39 (.231) this spring with two homers and 5 RBIs.
