For many years, Mets executives were forced to shop in the bargain bins. General managers would have to wait out the market to see who was available at the end of winter. Even in years when there were elite free agents available as spring training started, the Mets waited out the market without making moves.
The payroll for a big market team was laughable at times, so it’s hard to reconcile that with what it’s likely to be next season: Over $400 million, including taxes and penalties.
The Mets’ pre-arbitration CBT payroll for 2023 is projected to be just under $348 million. The luxury tax bill, arbitration pay raises and that extra outfielder they need to obtain will push the total north of $400 million. The estimated $58 million luxury tax bill will probably be more than some teams will spend next season.
