The New York Mets, fresh from their biggest offseason move, are now turning their attention to a versatile outfielder who can man center field and provide support in the corners. It's a critical move for a team with a serious need to bolster its outfield.
Cody Bellinger, the top free-agent position player on the market, fits the bill perfectly. Sources indicate the Mets are still keen on signing him, but with a twist. After committing $126 million over three years to Bo Bichette, the Mets might prefer a shorter-term deal with Bellinger. However, it's unclear if Bellinger is open to such an arrangement, as the Yankees are offering more years.
But here's where it gets controversial... The Mets are considering several options, and Bellinger is just one of them. Other names in the mix include free agent Harrison Bader, Lars Nootbar of the St. Louis Cardinals, Jake Meyers of the Houston Astros, and Luis Robert Jr. of the Chicago White Sox. The list could expand further, with Jarren Duran of the Boston Red Sox a potential trade target, although rival executives are skeptical.
The Mets' outfield situation is dire. Their 40-man roster boasts only three outfielders, one of whom is a prospect, Nick Morabito, who has never played above Double-A. Top prospect Carson Benge is expected to get a shot at an everyday job, but the Mets need more depth.
And this is the part most people miss... The Mets are also facing a draft pick dilemma. Since the Toronto Blue Jays issued a qualifying offer to Bichette, the Mets will lose their second- and fifth-highest selections in this year's draft, along with $1 million from their international bonus pool. If they sign another player with a qualifying offer, they'll forfeit their third- and sixth-highest picks as well. The available free agents with qualifying offers are starting pitchers Framber Valdez and Zac Gallen.
Losing draft picks is a concern, but it won't necessarily stop the Mets from making moves. They are expected to add pitching, exploring both free agents and trades. Trade targets include Freddy Peralta of the Milwaukee Brewers, Kris Bubic of the Kansas City Royals, and MacKenzie Gore of the Washington Nationals, although the latter two are considered long shots.
The Mets' rotation is projected to include Nolan McLean, Clay Holmes, Sean Manaea, David Peterson, and Kodai Senga, with Brandon Sproat, Jonah Tong, and Christian Scott as possibilities. Last year, the Mets' rotation was a disappointment, but FanGraphs' Depth Charts suggest an improvement this year, placing them in the middle of the pack.
The Mets have in-house options to start games, but they're aiming higher. With Bichette moving to third base, the Mets want Brett Baty to take on the utility role previously envisioned for Jeff McNeil. Baty, a left-handed batter, split time last season between third and second base, and the Mets are impressed with his improved bat and defensive abilities.
No one doubts Baty's work ethic or adaptability. Last year, he took on second base, a new position, and recently drove 90 minutes to work out with second baseman Marcus Semien and prospect Jett Williams. New Mets bench coach Kai Correa organized the workout, with Semien offering his expertise.
The Mets value Baty as a versatile piece, but he could also be a trade chip if they pursue a more established outfielder or starting pitcher. With the designated hitter spot and his ability to play multiple positions, Baty could see plenty of at-bats. He's under club control for four seasons, so any trade involving him would likely require the Mets to set a high bar.
So, what do you think? Are the Mets making the right moves to improve their team? Feel free to share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!
