It’s good to be back.
That’s how Robinson Cano feels about the idea of returning to New York.
“It feels good,” Cano told The Post when asked about having a chance to join the Mets. “It’s good to be back in New York.”
Cano arrived at JFK Airport late Sunday night on a flight from the Dominican Republic with physicals for the deal bringing him from the Mariners to the Mets needing to be completed Monday. When asked if he thinks he’ll pass his physical, Cano said: “Yeah, it feels good right now.”
The trade, which was agreed upon Saturday, sends the 36-year-old second baseman and closer Edwin Diaz to the Mets for Jay Bruce, Anthony Swarzak, prospects Jarred Kelenic and Justin Dunn and reliever Gerson Bautista. If all the medicals check out, the deal could be official as early as Monday.
This will be Cano’s second stint in New York. The second baseman spent nine seasons with the Yankees before signing a 10-year, $240 million free-agent contract with the Mariners in 2013.
At the airport, Cano was immediately recognized by a small group of fans as he entered the terminal and stopped to take photos.
He is coming off a disappointing season that included an 80-game suspension for PEDs. Cano still slashed .303/.374/.471 with 10 homers and 50 RBIs and is expected to bolster a Mets lineup that will be without Yoenis Cespedes for a large portion of the season. He said he is looking forward to getting back on the field.
“For me this season is motivating” Cano said. “It’s blessed always to wear a uniform, be able to play in the big leagues, to play sharp. Mets uniform, there is a lot of pride, a lot of good history and I’m ready to go.”
Cano had to waive his no-trade clause to make the move happen. The eight-time All-Star, who spent five seasons in Seattle, said he spoke to Mets general manager Brodie Van Wagenen before deciding to OK the deal.
“I know there is gonna be a lot of good things,” Cano said.
The Mets will only have to pay a portion of the five-year, $120 million remaining on Cano’s contract. The Mariners will send $20 million to Flushing as part of the trade.
While Cano is the recognizable name, Diaz is seen as the bigger get in the deal. The 24-year-old right-hander posted a 1.96 ERA and 57 saves for Seattle last season. Cano smiled when asked what Diaz can add to the Mets.
“You guys see that last year,” he said. “He’s young, good arm, smart too.”
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