If Zack Wheeler departs through free agency, the Mets can at least count on receiving draft-pick compensation.
On Monday, the club extended a qualifying offer to Wheeler for next season worth $17.8 million. The right-hander has until Nov. 14 to decide, but is expected to reject the offer and pursue a mega-deal on the open market. Wheeler’s departure would yield a draft pick because of the qualifying offer.
According to general manager Brodie Van Wagenen, the club is open to signing Wheeler, but is also making contingency plans in case he departs — relievers Seth Lugo and Robert Gsellman will prepare this offseason with the idea they could be asked to join the starting rotation.
“If we were to do that, then we need to fortify the bullpen,” Van Wagenen said. “And we will intend to find ways to get better in the bullpen as well.”
Manager Carlos Beltran said he expects to have input in the composition of the coaching staff, but declined to provide specifics.
Terry Collins’ name has been discussed as a possible bench coach, but Beltran is still trying to gauge if the former Mets manager is interested. The 70-year-old Collins still serves the organization as a special assistant.
“Terry Collins will be one of my mentors,” Beltran said. “I love Terry Collins. Terry Collins has reached out to me in a way where if I need help I can reach out to him. I don’t know if he wants to get back in the game or not, but the fact he is reaching out to me and wants to mentor me in this new position, I will take any help available out there.”