Steve Cohen sounds weary of giving Jacob deGrom a long-term contract

New York Mets owner Steve Cohen has money to spend, but he sounds a little cautious as it pertains to Jacob deGrom’s future contract.

deGrom’s contract has an opt-out after the 2022 season, so discussing it right now as if it’s a pressing issue might be a little premature. However, given the season deGrom is having, it’s not surprising some media member brought it up eventually.

The Mets will be favored to keep deGrom around should he continue pitching at a consistent clip (he will) and most importantly, should he stay healthy. So far this season, that’s been the only issue.

deGrom has a .54 ERA. That’s better than…pretty much anyone ever. But he’s also failed to make it through his last few outings. The small injuries continue to pile up, and it makes some sense that Cohen would prefer more durability from a man he’d like have to make the highest-paid pitcher in baseball to keep around.

New York Mets: Steve Cohen comments on Jacob deGrom’s contract

“I don’t think it’s the right moment. We’re focused on this year. Obviously, it’s something we’re thinking about. Listen, we love Jacob. … I don’t think I could pitch to a 0.54 ERA. He’s special,” Cohen said, per Anthony DiComo of MLB.com.

Giving your best pitcher a contract extension isn’t something you just think about, it’s something you do, assuming you’re in a comfortable spot. Finances is not something Cohen has to be worried about.

However, he ought to be concerned about the luxury tax moving forward, especially in deGrom’s contract year if MLB and MLBPA can’t come to an agreement on a new CBA. Cohen is a smart business mind, and he knows how to run his. And as complimentary as he is of deGrom in the above comment, you can sense the hesitancy to commit to that kind of contract right now.

It doesn’t mean deGrom’s days with the Mets are numbered, but it’s something to keep an eye on.