Adam Ottavino declines Mets option to test MLB free agency

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — Adam Ottavino tried to engage the Mets over the weekend to redo his contract, but when they were disinterested, he decided to opt out of the $6.75 million he was owed for 2024 and become a free agent.

Ottavino’s contract called for $4 million to be deferred on his 2024 player option. He told The Post that he offered to take less than the $6.75 million for 2024 but with no deferrals and that he was open to discussing a two-year deal as well.

He said the Mets were not interested in engaging on either.

Now Ottavino goes back into the marketplace. He turns 38 in two weeks and has been among the most durable relievers in the majors.

In the past six 162-game seasons, the big righty has appeared in at least 63 games in each year. In 2023, he appeared in 63 games with a 3.21 ERA and 12 saves.

Ottavino grew up in Brooklyn, lives in Westchester and loved playing in New York for both the Yankees and Mets.

He said he would not close any doors as a free agent. However, he did acknowledge his ties with the Mets were with now former general manager Billy Eppler and former manager Buck Showalter.

The Mets claimed infielder Zack Short off waivers from the Tigers. A Kingston, N.Y., native, Short, 28, appeared in 112 games for the Tigers last season and posted a .631 OPS.

John Curtiss, Tim Locastro, Denyi Reyes and Eliser Hernandez were outrighted to Triple-A and elected free agency.

Bryce Montes de Oca and Peyton Battenfield were outrighted to Triple-A.

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