But we definitely talk because at the end of the day, we are teammates and our job is to win games," Lindor explained.
The shortstop noted that their shared long-term contracts ensure they will continue working together. "I just feel like our relationship has continued to grow over the years.
We've been together for two years now. So there's no reason to say why it didn't get off on the right foot or anything.
It's just a relationship. A normal relationship," Lindor added.
Lindor concluded with optimism about their future as core franchise players. "We have the two long-term contracts here.
We're going to get to know each other a lot more. I am looking forward to the future and continuing to grow with him," he stated.
Media reports from SNY analyst Chelsea Janes suggested that Lindor's contract could theoretically be traded more easily than Soto's deal if management decided to overhaul the roster, though Cohen ruled out moving either star.
"If the Mets decide they need to recalibrate the heart of the roster – whether due to clubhouse dynamics or multiple years of on-field malaise -- the last five-and-a-half years of Lindor's $341M contract are still easier to shop than the billions and eons remaining on Soto's," Janes wrote.
Janes questioned whether an opposing front office might view acquiring Lindor as a superior alternative to the upcoming free-agent market.
"Could a team in need of a long-term middle infield solution and a middle-of-the-order bat decide Lindor is better than what will be available to them in the free-agent market?
Or that cost certainty on a player of his caliber is an asset heading into the lockout? That does not seem impossible," Janes noted.
Janes concluded that parting with Lindor remains difficult to foresee given his commitment to New York.
"Lindor is an extremely valuable hitter at his position who has committed himself to New York and proven himself capable of handling ups and downs here.
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It is not easy to envision the kind of deal that would inspire Cohen to part with him, let alone to shop him while planning to win again in 2027," Janes added.
