The New York Mets officially missed out on their top target in MLB free agency. The team was putting their efforts into acquiring Ben Zobrist even meeting with the infielder in New York, but ultimately they missed out. On Tuesday, Zobrist agreed to sign with the Chicago Cubs which now leaves the Mets searching for other options. Is bringing back Murphy the best option?
According to the New York Daily News, the idea that the Mets will bring back Murphy cannot be ruled. The infielder declined the team's one-year, $15.8 million qualifying offer which was no surprise to anyone, but that does not mean he is out of the team's bigger picture altogether. General manager John Ricco admits he was disappointed in missing out on Zobrist which now leaves the team looking for Plan B even though Murphy is Plan A for a number of other franchises. According to Ricco, the team is staying in contract with Murphy and is not ruling out the idea.
"We'll continue to stay in contact and see where that goes," Ricco said, via the Daily News. "We have a plan, we have a plan that Sandy (Alderson) has put in place. With free agency you have to have multiple options in front of you, keep not only free agency but trades in mind. We'll continue on with the plan, with Sandy's leadership, and look to improve the club the way we have been discussing."
Re-signing Murphy is the best option the Mets have. However, according to ESPN.com, the Metshave traded with the Pittsburgh Pirates to acquire Neil Walker in exchange for Jonathon Niese. The switch-hitter is a decent option, but he might not be what Murphy was for the team. It still leaves the Mets without a big bat to work with for the future. Losing Yoenis Cespedes means New York is without their two top hitters from last season. Still in need of replacing the outfielder, the Mets could get involved in the deals for Jason Heyward depending on his price tag. The young star is viewed as the perfect fit for New York. They could also take a look at Justin Upton for help if need be. Walker is a nice addition, but he is not enough to help get the Mets back to where they were last year.