The Mets are currently squared off with the Nationals in a key mid-season match-up. Despite entering the series just two games back in the division, New York faces a lot of scrutiny due to its scuffling offense.
Here’s the latest:
- Michael Cuddyer’s knee problems are an increasing concern for the Mets, as Marc Carig of Newsday reports. If one final effort at managing the pain proves unsuccessful, Cuddyer will likely hit the DL. An extended absence from the club’s major offseason acquisition would only increase the team’s already pressing need for offense.
- Of course, any missed time from Cuddyer will also increase calls for the team to promote well-regarded outfield prospect Michael Conforto. But as Andy Martino of the New York Daily News reports, that move remains unlikely. There is at least some consideration being given to a call-up, but the club does not believe that the second-year professional is the answer it is looking for right now. As Mike Puma of the New York Post explains on Twitter, the lack of viable alternatives at the Triple-A level means it is necessary to entertain the thought if Cuddyer has to go on the DL.
- All said, it seems as if GM Sandy Alderson is looking more for complimentary pieces than “one transformational bat,” according to Carig (Twitter links). That is reflected, to some extent, in the identity of the young players that internal and external executives see as being viable trade pieces. Per Carig, New York has little stomach for moving its most prized pre-MLB position talent (Conforto and shortstop Amed Rosario), but might be willing to deal well-regarded youngsters (and top-ten MLB.com organizational prospects) Brandon Nimmo, Gavin Cecchini, Jhoan Urena, and Matt Reynolds (among others).
- There are any number of outfielders that could be available to the Mets, but Joel Sherman of the New York Post says that one name to consider is Ryan Raburn of the Indians. Per Sherman, Cleveland is interested in picking up younger bats if it moves Raburn and/or fellow part-time Indians outfielder David Murphy. While the Mets prefer the idea of adding a Ben Zobrist-type super-utility player or a left-handed-hitting player capable of manning center — Sherman mentions Gerardo Parra — Raburn may be a more practicable target given his manageable salary and likely reasonable prospect cost.
That Cuddyer signing is looking worse and worse for the Mets. He can’t stay healthy, and they gave up a 1st round pick.
He is confirming every Met fans’ concern about him…older, slower, and cost a 1st rounder as the last kick in the nuts.
I was going to say the same thing.. Lost the 14th overall pick to sign old man Cuddyer.. They could have nabbed Richie Martin who would have solved their SS problems in a year or 2 making Rosario available as trade bait.. They could also have gone after Aiken or Kaprielian which would have made one of their current starters available to trade.. Especially Kaprielian, seeing as how most scouts are said to be considering him the closest to being mlb ready in the draft.. The Cuddyer signing alone should be grounds for firing Alderson..
Grounds for firing Alderson? That’s a bit of an overreaction.
Can someone explain to me why they never called Alex Castellanos up? He can play 2nd, 3rd, and corner OF. I know it’s Las Vegas, but he was slashing .314/.381/.614/.996 with 16 HR in 79 games. But there was never even a whisper of him coming up and he just left for Japan a few days ago. Seems weird that they never called him up for a week here or there.
Why not go and get Matsui, he is still playing and hitting in the nyc rec league! How can that be worse that what we have now? I dont even watch anymore. I live with a Yankee fan.
Braves could do Joey Terdoslavich, Eury Perez, Chris Johnson and Jonny Gomes for Jon Niese and Dominic Smith.
For a team this close to a playoff spot they sure are flawed. The obvious need is for at least 2 bats which they won’t get as well as bench help (which could come by bumping guys down the depth chart if we bring in real bats) and we need more reliable arms in the bullpen.
Since the team is enamored with their prospects and refuses to add salary (despite the fact they never have to pay David My Career Is Over Wright). Really frustrating rooting for this team right now.