The Mets view trading as the best way to improve the team during the offseason, according to ESPNNewYork.com’s Adam Rubin.
It’s unclear what players the Mets will look to trade. Outfielder Jason Bay is expected to be shopped this winter, but his lack of productivity and has contract make it unlikely that he’ll bring back a significant piece.
The Mets may have a hard time trading some of their pitchers. Johan Santana was experiencing a rejuvenation this year, but will be shut down for the rest of the season. He’s also owed $25.5 million next year. R.A. Dickey is likely to stay, as he’s the ace of the team. Mike Pelfrey and Dillon Gee will be coming off injuries, so they won’t have a ton of value. Jon Niese received a five-year extension at the start of the season, so he seems unlikely to go. There’s almost no way the Mets will shop Matt Harvey or Zack Wheeler.
Young hitters, like Ike Davis or Lucas Duda could bring back some value. There were reports earlier this season that the organization was not happy with Duda’s progression. While Davis struggled early, he’s been able to turn things around. Davis hit under .200 during his first two months, and has been solid since.
Reliever Frank Francisco could be on the block, but Rubin said he will be the closer next season in a separate tweet.
Since the Mets don’t have any obvious trade candidates that will bring back strong pieces, general manager Sandy Alderson might have to get creative with the moves he makes during the offseason.
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