Mets say Noah trade not likely

The Mets have been willing to listen to offers on Noah Syndergaard this winter, but they are not expecting to hear a return that is enough for them to part with the big right-hander.

“He is critical to what we’re trying to do now,” Mets’ GM Brodie Van Wagenen said. “It would have to be very special circumstances for us to even consider moving Noah Syndergaard. I think this deal puts us in a position where now we want to build around this core.”

Syndergaard seemed delighted with the news, tweeting “Strongest Avenger!” Tuesday afternoon, referencing his Thor moniker.

Van Wagenen and COO Jeff Wilpon continue to insist the Mets can compete next season. That premise is based on a strong rotation behind Cy Young winner Jacob deGrom and includes Syndergaard.

“He’s an important part of the team,” Wilpon said. “Unless Brodie gets what he thinks is more than fair, I don’t think that will happen.”

WRIGHT MOVES

The Mets are talking to David Wright about a settlement that would take him off their roster. Wright, who has undergone several major surgeries on his spine over the last four years, is physically unable to play. He has not declared himself retired, as that would require him to forfeit the remaining $27 million on his contract.

Jeff Wilpon said Tuesday they are working on a deal.

NIMMO CLAUS

Brandon Nimmo isn’t looking to have his No. 9 retired. Nope, the enthusiastic Mets outfielder is aiming for a bigger honor. After playing Santa at the Mets’ holiday party for school children Tuesday, his second straight year, Nimmo said that he hopes to have a run like former Mets captain and closer John Franco.

“I’d like to do it for 14 straight years and retire the suit,” Nimmo said after his duties handing out presents with new teammates Robinson Cano and Edwin Diaz. “I love it.” Nimmo broke the curse that had been associated with the suit last year.

For over a decade, the player tasked with dressing up as St. Nick either suffered a major injury, departed the team or saw a huge drop in production the following season.

In 2004, Mike Cameron donned the Santa suit and in 2005 was injured in a horrific outfield collision. Kris Benson, who played Santa in 2005 and was upstaged by his wife Anna wearing a skimpy Mrs. Claus outfit, was dealt to Baltimore the next year. Other victims of the curse include John Maine, Mike Pelfrey, Jeff Francoeur, David Wright (only after his second stint) and Daniel Murphy.