Source: Wilpon & Co. talk long-term deGrom contract

LAS VEGAS — Amid their scramble to find new players, the Mets found time Tuesday to begin discussions on securing their foundation.

According to an industry source, team officials convened with Jacob deGrom’s representatives at the winter meetings in the first step toward potentially locking up the ace right-hander to a long-term contract. Team COO Jeff Wilpon and assistant general manager John Ricco were among those who participated in the discussions — GM Brodie Van Wagenen is not allowed in the talks because he was deGrom’s agent with CAA.

Jeff Berry and Matt Ricatto of CAA now represent the pitcher.

DeGrom, who won the National League Cy Young award with a major league best 1.70 ERA, has indicated on multiple occasions he is open to the idea of extending his contract with the Mets. As it stands, deGrom can hit free agency following the 2020 season, when he will be 32 years old.

The arbitration-eligible deGrom earned $7.4 million last season and is due a substantial raise for 2019. If the two sides were to work out a long-term contract, it’s conceivable the Mets could backload the deal to provide in- creased payroll flexibility for next season.

Jeff McNeil should be prepared to wear the “super-sub” label for the Mets heading into spring training.

Asked Tuesday about the possibility of McNeil — last season’s rookie sensation for the Mets — platooning at third base, manager Mickey Callaway indicated the job belongs to Todd Frazier. McNeil lost his starting job at second base last week with Robinson Cano’s arrival in a trade with the Mariners.

“As we stand here Todd Frazier is going to be standing at third base and getting the opportunity to continue to earn that position,” Callaway said.

McNeil could see occasional outfield action and back up at all four infield positions, according to Callaway.

Cano is expected to hit third in the batting order, according to Callaway.