A prominent American sports broadcaster has made the explosive claim that a political disagreement over former President Donald Trump was the source of friction within the New York Mets clubhouse.
The Alleged Political Feud
Legendary New York radio host Mike Francesa asserted on Tuesday that a rift developed between the team's star shortstop, Francisco Lindor, and former left fielder Brandon Nimmo over their views of Trump. The 71-year-old Francesa stated his understanding was that the issue "had to do with Trump," with "one side" liking him and the other not. He described the situation as "the Nimmo-Lindor thing" and suggested that "Trump" was the splitting point, acknowledging that while it sounded crazy, "crazier things have happened."
Francesa did not specify which player held which political position. Public records show that Nimmo, who was born in Wyoming and maintains an off-season home in Florida, is a registered Republican in that state. The Daily Mail has reportedly contacted representatives for both players, as well as the Mets organisation, for comment.
Mets' Off-Season Overhaul Continues
The allegation emerges as the Mets navigate a significant roster transition. The 2025 season ended in disappointment, with the team finishing 83-79 and missing the playoffs despite carrying the second-highest payroll in baseball at $342 million.
General Manager David Stearns has been active in reshaping the squad. Key departures include first baseman Pete Alonso, who signed a five-year, $155 million deal with the Baltimore Orioles, and star closer Edwin Díaz, who joined the World Champion Los Angeles Dodgers on a three-year, $69 million contract.
In a major move, Stearns traded Brandon Nimmo to the Texas Rangers for veteran second baseman Marcus Semien. He has also bolstered the bullpen by signing reliever Devin Williams from the New York Yankees to a three-year, $45 million deal, and added infielder Jorge Polanco on a two-year, $40 million contract. Polanco is expected to fill the void at first base left by Alonso.
Trump's Tangential Mets Connections
While Donald Trump has no direct official link to the Mets, several connections exist. Billionaire team owner Steve Cohen donated $1 million to Trump's 2017 inaugural fund. Furthermore, Trump's son-in-law, Jared Kushner, is a known Mets fan and has been seen in the team's dugout with his children.
There were also reports back in 2011 that Trump explored purchasing a minority stake in the franchise. Historically, however, the Queens-born former president has been more associated with the New York Yankees, famously citing a long-time friendship with their late owner, George Steinbrenner.
The Mets' off-season may not be complete. High-profile free agents like Kyle Tucker of the Chicago Cubs, Cody Bellinger of the Yankees, and Bo Bichette of the Toronto Blue Jays remain available and could provide a significant offensive boost to manager Carlos Mendoza's lineup for the 2026 campaign.
