Cespedes says he'll seek at least a 6-year deal

NEW YORK -- If the Mets have any designs on keeping Yoenis Cespedes around after this season, they'll need to sign him to one of the richest contracts they've given out in their history. Cespedes broke his silence regarding contract matters before the Mets' 5-1 win over the Yankes in the Subway Series opener, telling ESPN that he will seek at least a six-year deal in free agency.

"My only hope is to stay healthy," Cespedes told ESPN. "I'm not thinking about a contract, but I do know that I will be looking for a contract that is six years or more, has to be six years or more. We'll see what happens."

Cespedes recently renegotiated a clause in his contract that will allow the Mets to sign him at any point this offseason, as opposed to within five days of the World Series only. But the Mets have shown no inclination to negotiate with Cespedes, a non-waiver Trade Deadline rental who remains a long shot to stick around past this season. General manager Sandy Alderson has never committed more than $60 million to a free agent since joining the Mets; the largest contract he has doled out was the $138 million deal he gave to franchise icon David Wright, one year shy of free agency.

Yet not pursuing Cespedes could become a public-relations issue given his effect on the franchise. Entering Friday's play, Cespedes was batting .295 with 17 home runs in 43 games with the Mets. He will turn 30 in October.