San Francisco Giants executive vice president Brian Sabean was at Citi Field over the weekend watching the series between the New York Mets and Washington Nationals. Could a trade between the Giants and Mets be in the works?
The Giants have all sorts of problems with their roster, most notably involving their offense and starting rotation. San Francisco ranks 28th in the MLB in runs scored (79) and 15th in starter's ERA (4.07), but have managed to stay afloat with a 12-13 record. Sabean obviously understands they need an upgrade in both departments, which is why he may have been in New York.
"The reason for the presence of Sabean as well as senior advisor Lee Elder at the Queens ballpark is not clear, although Sabean did relinquish the role of general manager to deputy Bobby Evans last month and resolves to do more scouting in the field," writes Adam Rubin of ESPNNewYork.com.
Rubin notes Giants' third baseman Casey McGehee is batting .188/.243/.275 with five runs scored, one home run and three RBIs while starters Ryan Vogelsong and Tim Lincecum are struggling, and Jake Peavy and Matt Cain have been on the disabled list and could remain there for the long term.
"The Giants could be looking to upgrade at third base this summer," Rubin added.
"The Mets also have an excess starting pitcher, which may be another Giants need before the trade deadline."
Such speculation has led Daniel Murphy to be mentioned in trade rumors with the Giants because the Mets called up Dilson Herrera last week as the team waits for David Wright to come off the DL. If they opt to keep Herrera with the team when Wright returns then Murphy would become expendable. Murphy was already moved from second to third base when Herrera was promoted, and considering the Mets have shown no interest in extending the veteran, who is off to a slow start this season (.204/.257/.344 with seven runs scored, two home runs and 17 RBIs), it's realistic they look to trade him.
"Still, Mets officials in recent days have suggested there is nothing serious going on right now involving Murphy and discussions with other teams," Rubin noted.
As for their plentiful starters, New York has Bartolo Colon, Jonathon Neise, Dillon Gee, Rafael Montero and other prospects who could be subject to a trade if they're presented the right package. However, San Francisco doesn't have much to offer, both on their 25-man roster or in their farm system, so it's likely they look to deal for a lower profile starter.
Sabean will probably be patient and weigh his options, but if things get out of hand for San Francisco he may eventually be forced to make a deal to improve the roster.
