The New York Mets are thriving right now in the National League East, but that does not mean the team is planning on staying quiet at the trade deadline. In need of offensive consistency, the Mets could be looking for big bats and infield help with just over a week left before the official end of the trading period. While the team continues to rest on their strong pitching rotation, was one member of it almost sent packing too soon?
According to Hall of Fame pitcher John Smoltz, the Mets have one of the best pitching rotations in recent memory. However, their dominating group almost was not as Jacob deGrom was almost sent away has he struggled at a point in the season. According to Peter Gammons of GammonsDaily.com, the Mets came very close to dealing deGrom to the Boston Red Sox as he healed from a surgery. The deal was never made and now the Mets are benefitting from the young star.
While pitching is not a concern, bats are and the Mets are looking at several options at the trade deadline. According to ESPN's Jayson Stark, the Mets and New York Yankees could end up battling it out for Ben Zobrist. According to CBSSports.com, the Mets are willing to offer up Rafael Montero to the Oakland Athletics in exchange for the utility man. With Michael Cuddyer still dealing with a knee injury and potentially headed for the disabled list, the Mets like the idea of bringing in Zobrist for help.
That is why they are also aiming to acquire Justin Upton who is in the middle of his first season with the San Diego Padres. The Mets need depth in hitting and outfield players which makes the star the best fit. Having an outfield tandem of Upton and Curtis Granderson could prove to be highly productive for the Mets moving closer to the postseason.
The Mets are keeping their options open. While everyone is focused on pitchers at the deadline, the Mets are hoping to make a move on the forgotten field players. MLB sources believe players like Will Venable, Carlos Gomez or Yoenis Cespedes excellent options moving forward. They are the best fits for the needs of New York.
