With the MLB offseason in fully swing, the hottest name on the free agent is Ben Zobrist. The 35-year-old is fresh off winning a World Series with the Kansas City Royals. His versatility and bat have him as the top name on the open market as a number of teams line up to acquire the infielder. According to several sources, the New York Mets are hopeful to win out as they make Zobrist their No.1 target this offseason.
According to FOX Sports' Ken Rosenthal, the Mets are making Zobrist their top priority this offseason as they brace for the exit of Daniel Murphy. The Zobrist market will be very competitive as every team is chasing his versatility on the field and consistent bat at the plate. Over 20 teams have reportedly checked in on what his price would be as Rosenthal reports the infielder wants a guaranteed fourth year in whatever contract he signs. The Mets must be willing to give that if they are going to win him over.
According to Adam Rubin of ESPN.com, the idea that the Mets would give Zobrist a fourth year is unlikely. The team has reportedly still not ruled out retaining Murphy who would also require that fourth year in his contract. According to Rubin, the Mets are hoping for a hometown discount from the infielder which is also unlikely. Both Murphy and Zobrist are well aware their markets will be competitive and hot and they can take advantage of it. The Mets could very well come up short on the pursuit for both players.
Could the Mets be force to try for a trade deal to help their infield instead? According to ESPN's David Schoenfield, Todd Frazier could be an option if the Mets shift David Wright to first base. The Mets are reportedly willing to trade Lucas Duda and Frazier could be a solid option to bring in while giving the team insurance for when Wright is hurt. Javier Baez could be another target. According to the Chicago Sun Times, the Cubs are willing to shop Baez in deals this offseason for pitching help. He would be a quality option while being a player the Mets could develop. The same can be said for Jackie Bradley Jr who is reportedly available according to the Boston Globe.
The Mets are losing their two biggest bats in Murphy and Yoenis Cespedes. They cannot afford to be frugal on the free agent market. They either need to be willing to spend some money or give up an asset in a trade.
