Part 4/14:
Long-term contracts approaching age 31-32 carry risk but also signify a window of prime output.
There's a possibility Bellinger garners a long-term, high-dollar deal from other teams—possibly limiting Mets' competition for his services.
The Big Picture
Adding Bellinger aligns with the Mets' "win-now" strategy—he offers offensive punch, defensive versatility, and experience in big markets (LA, Chicago, New York). Plus, his capability to be a stopgap in center until prospects like Carson Benj develop adds to his appeal.