The New York Mets are prepared to lose their top two bats this offseason as both Daniel Murphy and Yoenis Cespedes hit free agency. With their pitching rotation set for the 2016 season, the Mets are now tasked with getting help in both the infield and the outfield, but doing so could be tricky. While the team is not opposed to handing out a big contract to someone, doing so might not be very easy.
According to Adam Rubin, the Mets want to sign Ben Zobrist in free agency, but the chances they land him are slim to none. The versatile infielder is about to get a nice pay day even at 34 after helping the Kansas City Royals win the World Series. Everyone in baseball wants Zobrist on their roster given his consistency at the plate and ability to be the ultimate utility man. However, Zobrist will have high contract demands. According to Rubin, the infielder is aiming to get a deal worth $14 million per season with four years on the contract. That fourth year could put the Mets over the edge.
Rubin believes that if Zobrist is demanding the fourth year then the Mets should just re-sign Murphy instead. While that has not been ruled out as a potential option, the Mets might have to look elsewhere instead. Gerardo Perra could be a solid and affordable option. Howie Kendrick is viewed as a good short-term option.
The issue is the Mets also need outfield help with Cespedes out. Who are realistic options the Mets could target? Of course Jason Heyward is first on the list as he is with many teams. ESPN Insider Jim Bowden believes the Mets and Heyward are a solid fit for one another as he would provide the team with the big bat they need. The 26-year-old is expected to command a contract that could reach upwards of $200 million. His defense and bat would help the Mets fill the whole of Cespedes if they are willing to spend the money. Other options include Justin Upton who will also be looking for a nice pay day. A trade for Jackie Bradley Jr could also be an option. The Boston Globe reports the left-hander is available at the right price.
