2011 MLB Trade Rumors: Tigers Targeting Mets Infielder Daniel Murphy

According to Joel Sherman of the New York Post, several teams have shown interest in Mets infielder Daniel Murphy.  Sherman says the Tigers, Blue Jays and Padres have all checked in on Murphy this offseason and that Detroit seems to have the most interested of the bunch.

Sherman reports that, while the Mets “like Murphy’s bat”, they are concerned that he doesn’t have a true defensive position and that he hasn’t shown an ability to remain healthy.

Since making his debut in 2008, Murphy has hit at a clip of .292/.343/.441 with the Mets.  Murphy showed well during his short stint with the club in 2008, and gave the Mets a full season in 2009.  As the club’s primary first baseman, Murphy managed an OPS of .741 with 54 extra base hits and 63 RBI’s.

This was the first and last time Murphy played in more than 109 games for the Mets.  Murphy missed the entire 2010 season due to injury, and the 26-year-old was limited to 109 games in 2011.  This season Murphy was productive at the plate, hitting .320/.362/.448 with 36 extra base hits and 49 RBI’s.

During his time with the Mets, Murphy has played first, second and third base as well as left field.

According to Sherman, the Tigers have been the most aggressive team in pursuit of Murphy.  Sherman believes Detroit is interested in bringing in Murphy and making him Brandon Inge’s replacement at third.

Sherman also reports that, if a trade were to happen, the Mets would have interest in Tigers outfielder Andy Dirks.  The 25-year-old hit .251/.296/.703 for the Tigers this season.

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