Sign J.T. Realmuto as the New York Mets long term answer behind the plate
There is no question that J.T. Realmuto is the prize of the offseason. The New York Mets were already expected to be heavily involved in his market, but now it is imperative that they land the All Star catcher.
Realmuto would instantly upgrade the Mets lineup, adding an additional threat to the heart of the order. He has emerged as a star behind the plate, posting a .278/.328/.455 batting line with 95 homers and 156 doubles over his 2940 career plate appearances. He has been a two time All Star, and won the 2019 Gold Glove award.
Adding Realmuto would not only improve the Mets lineup, but it would also hurt their competition. He has spent the past two years with the Phillies, having been acquired from the Marlins for a package of prospects that included Sixto Sanchez. While the Phillies want to keep him, and had hoped to work out an extension, those hopes have essentially been dashed.
The opportunity is there. While other owners posted tremendous losses this season due to the pandemic, Cohen has just taken the franchise over. Those losses are not his concern. He can still go out and spend without worry.
Part of that spending spree should be to get the best players possible. Adding J.T. Realmuto to the New York Mets lineup would send a message that they are ready to be taken seriously once more.