One of the best starting pitchers in baseball,  New York Mets star Jacob deGrom, wants to make one thing absolutely clear: Baseball is the priority.

Not one to let contract negotiations distract from his on-field performance, deGrom chose to be very forthcoming with the New York media during his availability at the Mets' spring training facility. When asked about his potential opt-out clause after the 2022 season, deGrom plainly expressed his intentions. Via SNY:

 

deGrom reiterated that he intends to let the 2022 season unfold without any further discussions about his contract. Following the 2022 season, deGrom intends to opt out of his current contract with the Mets.

However, Mets fans shouldn't panic.

“I don't want that (the contract) to be any distraction. Like I said, I am excited about this team. I've said it before, I love being a Met. I think it would be really cool to be (a Met) for my entire career”, he said.

deGrom's current deal with New York runs through the 2023 season, with a club option for 2024. deGrom has the ability to opt out of his contract following the 2022 season and become a free agent. deGrom is set to earn $18.5 million in 2022. His current contract has him set to earn $30.5 million in 2023.

Jacob deGrom has a career 2.50 ERA, 1.01 WHIP, and a total of 1,505 Ks since entering the league in 2014. If deGrom does indeed opt-out following the 2022 season, his next contract could potentially reset the market for starting pitchers. His new teammate, Max Scherzer, signed a 3-year, $130 million dollar contract prior to the lockout. If deGrom is able to stay healthy for a full season, look for him to eclipse the record-setting average-annual-value set by Scherzer.

The Mets are anticipated to have a dominant starting rotation this season. With deGrom in tow and Scherzer joining the fold, the Mets will have a scary 1-2 punch that any NL contender will be wary of come October. Following this season, both deGrom and the Mets will look to lock down this dominant duo for years to come.