Mets’ Sean Manaea makes easiest call of his free agency

A teary-eyed Sean Manaea stood before reporters after the Mets were eliminated from the postseason in October. His magical season was over and so too, possibly, was his run in orange and blue.

On Monday, Alden González of ESPN reported that Manaea "will reject the Mets' $21.05M qualifying offer." The club will know for sure the left-hander's decision before Tuesday's 4 p.m. ET.

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If González's report holds, the Mets can still sign Manaea, who is seeking a multi-year deal. Should he sign elsewhere, they'll receive draft pick compensation.

Manaea reinvented himself, adopting a more horizontal arm slot thanks to Braves ace Chris Sale. During an 11-game stretch in August and September with his new look, the left-hander elevated his game to a new level, posting a 2.63 ERA with a 0.76 WHIP and 82 strikeouts during that span.

When away from the mound, he lent his time to Mr. and Mrs. Met's Kids Club members, leading the kids through a series of stretches and exercises. He also rides the subway to and from his apartment and enjoys long walks in New York City.

Manaea signed a two-year, $28 million deal last winter with an opt-out, which he is expected to exercise.

Manaea isn't the only player the Mets will be eagerly looking to hear back from tomorrow. Right-hander Luis Severino, who posted a 3.91 ERA in 31 starts this season, and first baseman Pete Alonso were also extended qualifying offers from the Mets — both are expected to reject.

Severino will seek a multi-year deal elsewhere. Alonso could stay, but that likely depends on whether Juan Soto signs with the Mets.