With his fantastic season ensuring he would opt out and become a free agent for the third straight winter, it was no guarantee that he would find his way back to the Mets. In the end, a reunion was in store. The Mets' chapter of Manaea’s career will not be a one-year fling.

Sean Manaea is set to return to the New York Mets on a $75 million, three-year contract, a person familiar with the agreement told The Associated Press. The person spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity Monday because the deal was subject to a successful physical.

Another potential starting pitcher for the San Francisco Giants has come off the board just two days before Christmas.