MLB Insider: New York Mets Won't 'Hesitate' to Sign Manny Machado

One MLB insider believes that the Mets won't hesitate to sign Manny Machado if he becomes a free agent after the season.

PORT ST. LUCIE - Although we're still one year away, the Mets could target a superstar third baseman if he hits the open market after the season.

Last week, Manny Machado said he plans to opt out of his 10-year, $300 million contract with the San Diego Padres after 2023.

As USA TODAY's Bob Nightengale reported on Sunday, the Padres offered Machado a five-year, $105 million extension beginning in 2029.

Per Nightengale, Machado's camp countered with a 10-year, $400 million extension, which would begin in 2024.

So, with both sides far apart, Nightengale believes the following teams would jump on Machado if he becomes a free agent.

“If the Padres don’t pay it, well, don’t think for a second that someone like the New York Mets or Yankees or San Francisco Giants or the Chicago Cubs will hesitate.”

The Mets nearly signed another star third baseman this past offseason in Carlos Correa, who they agreed to a 12-year, $315 million deal with. However, the deal fell through due to concerns over Correa's ankle.

Due to the Mets' willingness to spend behind billionaire owner Steve Cohen, the pursuit of Machado does not appear to be out of the realm of possibility next offseason.

While Machado won't come cheap, the Mets hold the financial means to be able to land him. And according to Nightengale, they won't hesitate.

- Steve Cohen on Mets: 'I Feel an Incredible Vibe Here'

- Francisco Lindor Played Through Appendix Issue in 2022

- Buck Showalter Touches on Plan for Francisco Alvarez

Follow Pat Ragazzo on Twitter (@ragazzoreport), be sure to bookmark Inside The Mets and check back daily for news, analysis and more.

Read More: