Sports

Joel Sherman of the New York Post reports that Bay will receive the $21 million remaining on his contract, including $16 million in 2013, $3 million on a buyout for 2014 and $2 million as part of a deferred signing bonus. The Mets have announced it as a "negotiated early expiration of his contract," which means some money will be deferred to help lessen the burden on the payroll for 2013. Otherwise, this would be a standard release. Bay was a complete disaster in three seasons with the Mets, batting just .234/.318/.369 with 26 home runs. Some thought Bay would at least make it to spring training with the club before a release was considered, but the Mets decided to pull the plug early and free up a spot on the 40-man roster. Both sides will be better off by turning the page.