The trade market around Stephen Drew has been high and low at the same time. The Boston Red Sox shortstop has been sitting unsigned as several other players have earned their big contracts. After the New York Yankees exited the race for Drew, the New York Mets appear to be taking the same approach.
After the Yankees announced they were finished spending money this offseason and would not pursue the top infielder, the Mets looked like the best option for Drew. However, according Anthony DiComo of MLB.com, the Mets general manager Sandy Alderson said the team is unlikely to sign the free agent.
"We haven't ruled it out, but I think doing anything is unlikely," Alderson said. "I think that Stephen will always have other opportunities. We continue to monitor his situation. We're looking at other free agents that are still available, and [we're] trying to judge their status and how they might fit with us. I know there's been a lot of speculation about Drew and the Mets, but at this point, that's what it remains -- speculation."
The Mets were the popular choice for Drew. The organization has been publically outspoken when it comes to their displeasure with current shortstop Ruben Tejada. The 24-year-old has seen some dips in his stats, hitting .202 in 2013. However, Alderson is going to maintain the faith and stay hopeful that Tejada can turn things around in the coming season.
So where does that leave Drew? The market for shortstops in general has been weak. Drew is the best available. He batted .253 last season while knocking out 13 home runs in 124 games. Part of the reason suitors have been tough to find is because Drew turned down the qualifying offer made by the Boston Red Sox, meaning any team looking to sign him will have to forfeit a top draft pick.
This would actually work in the Mets' favor. The team has their first-round pick protected after they gave up a second-round choice in order to sign Curtis Granderson to a deal. The team would only have to lose a third-round draft pick to sign Drew and fill a position they have had issues with in the past. Next year's market in the position appears weak on first glance, making Drew a solid option now and for the future.
A return to the Boston Red Sox could be the best option for Drew. The team originally offered a one-year, $14.1 million offer. The shortstop might be forced to take the deal if no other team steps forward.
