The New York Mets are looking to make a move at the trade deadline and injuries might force their hand at certain deals. With their pitching rotation completely set, the Mets are more concerned with getting bats and depth on the field in order to keep pace in the National League and head into the postseason. With Michael Cuddyer being sent down to the disabled list following an injury, will the Mets look to acquire another outfielder or utility player?
According to Adam Rubin of ESPN.com, the Mets have sent Michael Cuddyer down to the disabled list after weeks of struggling at the plate and on the field. The outfielder was diagnosed with a bone bruise in his left knee cap that has caused him to play just six games in the past month. The Mets have been hesitating to make the move official with a lack of depth on the roster, but they were forced to call up Michael Conforto from Double-A to replace Cuddyer for the time being.
The Mets are seeking for help at the trade deadline and are being linked to several options before July 31. According to FOX Sports, the Mets have inquired about a number of players including Josh Reddick, Justin Upton and utility man Bon Zobrist. All three players would be huge upgrades for Cuddyer and would allow Conforto to truly develop further being becoming active. The question is who the Mets would offer up in return for the deal.
Jayson Stark of ESPN is reporting New York is ready to offer up Jon Niese in a deal as he remains locked up through 2016 with team options for 2017 and 2018. The pitcher is the ideal trade piece for any team not necessarily looking for a short-term pickup. The Mets are also willing to offer up Rafael Montero in a deal with any team in order to get depth on the roster.
The Mets are getting some help. According to FOX Sports, third baseman David Wright has been cleared for baseball activities and is expected to make a move back to the roster sooner rather than later. Wright plus Conforto should help the Mets inconsistent offense, but a trade is the best move to really give them late-season success. The Mets cannot afford to keep the poor production at the plate if they want to see the playoffs.
