Jay Bruce to New York Mets May Be Derailing

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What appeared to be an almost certain deal is now quickly derailing as it appears that Jay Bruce to the Mets is losing momentum.

The Cincinnati Reds were always going to be hesitant sellers, and they are showing that hesitancy not only with Jay Bruce but also with Aroldis Chapman. Bruce figured to be the offensive rejuvenation that the New York Mets desperately needed but the deal is much father from completion than we originally thought.

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Multiple sources are indicating that the Mets may be more interested in nabbing two deadline bats as opposed to just Jay Bruce and as such, they have stepped up their interest in Justin Upton and Yoenis Cespedes.

However, do not count the deal as dead just yet. The Mets need a powerful left-handed bat and Jay Bruce would provide that, plus he could factor as more than a rental, like the other two  names would be.

The original hang up over the deal may be more serious than it initially appeared to be. Sources indicated that the Reds were not sure if just Zack Wheeler would be enough to net Jay Bruce, but it seemed like the two clubs were willing to talk it out and potentially add another name or two to make the deal work. That may not be the case, as the Mets’ may only be willing to deal Wheeler and nothing else.

Either way, the New York Mets desperately need offense if they are going to mount any sort of playoff push and currently, Jay Bruce is the best, most viable and nearest deal to completion. If another player is required, they should step up the offer. Pitching is not a problem for the Mets.

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The Reds, on the other hand, gain nothing by hanging onto guys like Bruce or Chapman if they are about to go into rebuild mode. Jay Bruce figures to be moved anyway so moving him for a return like Zack Wheeler is not the worst they can do.

Not only that, but indicating that the Reds are not sure if they are interested in the Mets’ “package” makes it sound like they have added more to the deal other than just Wheeler. However, with the clock ticking, the Mets may have to add more to sway the Reds toward acceptance.

Next: Parra to Baltimore All Set

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