David Stearns all but ruling out Mets return for Jose Iglesias

PORT ST.LUCIE — OMGoodbye. A desire to evaluate younger players while maintaining roster flexibility led to the Mets backing away from Jose Iglesias this offseason, according to president of baseball operations David Stearns. In his initial press conference of spring training, Stearns on Wednesday indicated that it’s unlikely the free agent Iglesias will return.

Iglesias last year was the ringleader — producing both in the lineup and emerging as a key clubhouse figure — of the “OMG” Mets who resurrected their season after a rough start and reached the NLCS. “Where we are now, for that role on our team, it’s important for us to keep some avenues open for our younger players,” Stearns said.“We think it’s important for us to have some roster flexibility with that spot.” Stearns noted the club at one point last season didn’t have a backup position player with minor league options remaining, leaving the Mets “frozen” for a stretch. “It’s really tough to freeze your entire position player roster,” Stearns said. Pete Alonso, Jeff McNeil, Francisco Lindor and Mark Vientos are the infield starters.

Those with an opportunity in camp to win a backup job include Nick Madrigal, Brett Baty and Luisangel Acuña. Iglesias, 35, produced a .337/.381/.448 slash line in 291 plate appearances for the Mets after he was unsuccessful in finding a major league job the previous season. ...