The New York Mets are the subject of a lot of trade rumors right now due to their offensive struggles that contributed to a recent 9-12 slide. General manager Sandy Alderson is seemingly under pressure to make a move as the deadline approaches.
Alderson isn't one to make hasty decisions because of mounting criticism from the media and fans, but as the Mets' pitching staff continues to dominate the MLB it's clear they'd be contenders if they had a bit more offensive production. Alderson recently said the trade market is "just beginning to reveal itself," via Mike Puma of the New York Post, so perhaps he has a few ideas in mind.
New York was previously linked to Milwaukee Brewers infielders Aramis Ramirez (3B) and Jean Segura (SS), but it was said the trade talks didn't progress. However, Jon Morosi of FOX Sports reported yesterday that the Mets "recently" had discussions with the Brewers regarding Ramirez and Segura.
With the uncertain injury status of David Wright as well as the team's unsolved situation at shortstop, these two trade targets make perfect sense. One would imagine if the Mets want to acquire Segura then the Brewers are asking them to take on Ramirez and his remaining salary for 2015.
But neither of these men are having great campaigns and it was previously reported the Mets weren't all that impressed with Ramirez, who is batting .233/.277/.419 with 21 runs scored, 10 home runs and 39 RBIs in 74 games. Additionally, Jon Heyman of CBS Sports reported yesterday that the Mets "aren't exactly enamored with [shortstops] Starlin Castro or Jean Segura, whose free-swinging ways don't necessarily fit their style."
Segura is batting .274/.305/.349 with 31 runs scored, 3 home runs, 24 RBIs and 12 stolen bases in 71 games. It's likely the Mets are looking for a defensive upgrade at shortstop as well, and Segura is not known for his glove.
There's always Troy Tulowitzki, who has been linked to the Mets in countless rumors, but that doesn't seem likely given the Rockies stance on their shortstop and the Mets having to inherit a $100 million contract.
So who will the Mets pursue if none of the above options end up appealing to them before July 31?
Heyman provided another interesting slugger.
"Padres people were said to be scouting the Mets system, leading to speculation New York could be in on Justin Upton," he added. "He's exactly what they need. 'Nothing imminent,' one executive said. 'Nothing close,' said another."
After San Diego's historic overhaul this offseason, their underachieving ways have put general manager A.J. Preller in a position to sell before the trade deadline. If that's the case, Upton will likely be one of the first players to go because he will be a free agent after the season and the Pads probably won't be able to retain him due to their payroll situation and uncertain future.
Upton would be a great fit for New York because he's a power-hitting outfielder and Michael Cuddyer's constantly swelling knee is not anything for the Mets to be optimistic about. Additionally, the only run producer in the outfield for the Mets is Curtis Granderson, so they need some help in that department.
Upton will not be cheap, but it's likely Alderson has a bit of negotiating leverage because the outfielder is a two-month rental and the Padres desperately need to replenish their depleted farm system.
And what if Mets' owner Fred Wilpon decides to open up his pockets in the offseason? Signing Upton long-term would be a good move for the Mets and the New York spotlight may appeal to the slugger, who has previously played in Arizona and Atlanta.
We are now less than three weeks away from the trade deadline and the Mets are one of the top teams to watch as they hope to maintain their standing in the NL East and catch up to the Washington Nationals.
