Sources: Batting champ Luis Arraez fits Mets better than Yankees

Three-time batting champion Luis Arraez isn’t likely to play for a New York team this season — but as his name is in the news lately, it’s worth noting that the Mets seem slightly more open to adding him than the Yankees do.

The Yanks checked in briefly last November with San Diego. They have not engaged with the Padres on Arraez since, according to league sources. Those preliminary conversations were general and typical for early in an offseason, and included brief chats about Arraez, Jake Cronenworth, and others.

The Yankees are not expected to begin a pursuit of Arraez.

The Mets have not engaged in substantive trade talks with the Padres, either, but could be looking to add a veteran infielder.

If Pete Alonso signs with another team, Arraez could come into play as a stopgap first baseman, who has an ability to play other infield positions (though at a below-average level).

The Padres’ contentious ownership situation makes it difficult for the Yankees, Mets or any other rival club to assess the team’s intentions. Earlier this week, the widow of late owner Peter Seidler sued Seidler’s brothers for control of the franchise. With that as a backdrop, it has been challenging for other teams to assess the short-term direction of San Diego’s baseball operations.