Mets, Ace Jacob deGrom Sets Contract Extension Deadline

National League Cy Young award winner Jacob deGrom has informed the Mets he will not negoiate a new deal during the season.

National League Cy Young award winner Jacob deGrom informed the Mets he will not negotiate a new deal during the season, reportsThe New York Post.

According to The Post, Opening Day is the deadline to complete any longer term deal. deGrom can become a free agent after the 2020 season, and he's looking for a contact that would buy out his remaining arbitration year and extend his deal with New York.

Mets general manager and deGrom's former agent Brodie Van Wagenen said Tuesday the deadline was mutually understood.

"We know how important he is to the organization," Van Wagenen said. "And I think it will be my job to make sure there’s no strained relationship no matter what takes place as we continue to move forward."

According to The Post, deGrom's agent, Jeff Berry, recently released a memo that suggested pitchers could look to cap their workloads during a season to protect free agency value.

Van Wagenen had recused himself from negotiating with Berry, citing the conflict of interest. But he will be involved in contract negoations.

The Mets and deGrom agreed on a $17 million contract for 2019 — the raise a record in arbitration from his $7.4 million last season.

The Mets' ace earned his first Cy Young last season, going 10–9 with a 1.70 ERA and 269 strikeouts and has been with the New York since he was drafted in the ninth round of the 2010 MLB draft. deGrom made his debut in 2014.

The Mets open the upcoming season on March 28 against the Nationals in Washington, D.C. and host the Nationals in their home opener on April 4.