Report: Mets will likely need to shed payroll to sign Springer

The New York Mets might have to get creative financially if they want to add George Springer to the roster after trading for Francisco Lindor and Carlos Carrasco on Thursday.

The Mets will likely need to shed payroll with another trade for the club to sign the 2017 World Series MVP, sources told Andy Martino of SNY.

New York's 2021 payroll sits slightly under $190 million, according to Martino, who adds the team would prefer to be $5-$10 million under the $210-million luxury tax threshold for roster moves during the season.

Mets president Sandy Alderson acknowledged the luxury tax threshold Thursday but was coy about it impacting additional moves this winter.

"It's a significant demarcation," Alderson said, according to Mark Feinsand of MLB.com. "I wouldn't say it's a line that can't be passed."

Springer, a three-time All-Star, is reportedly looking for a multi-year pact worth around $175 million. The Mets were willing to offer him a five-year deal for a bit less than $150 million, sources told Martino.

It's unknown if the reported offer is still on the table following the Lindor-Carrasco trade.

Meanwhile, the Toronto Blue Jays reportedly made an initial offer of five years in the $115-million range to Springer.

The 31-year-old outfielder slashed .270/.361/.491 with 174 home runs and 458 RBIs over seven seasons with the Houston Astros before hitting free agency.