New York Mets reunite Francisco Lindor and Javier Baez

The New York Mets had been relatively quiet in the hours leading up to the trade deadline. While they acquired Rich Hill approximately a week ago, there was the sense that more deals had to be coming. However, even though they have been a fixture in trade rumors, nothing had happened.

That changed in the minutes before the deadline. The Mets finally made their move, acquiring Javier Baez and Trevor Williams as the Cubs fire sale continues, with top prospect Pete Crow-Armstrong as part of the return heading to Chicago.

New York Mets unite Javier Baez and Francisco Lindo

Baez had been adamant that he wanted to remain with the Cubs, saying several times that he wanted a long term extension so that he could spend his career with the franchise. However, if he was to leave, he indicated that he wanted to be sent to the Mets to play alongside his friend Francisco Lindor.

That desire has been fulfilled. While Lindor is on the Injured List currently, Baez adds another impressive defensive presence to the infield. He will slot in at short while Lindor is sidelined, and then is likely heading to second to give the Mets an impressive middle of the infield.

Even though Baez has not emerged as a star with the bat, he has still been solid. Despite his 131 strikeouts in 361 plate appearances, he has posted a respectable .248/.292/.484 batting line with 22 homers. He will give the Mets offense a bit of a boost while providing excellent defense wherever he is slotted.

Williams, meanwhile, is essentially a stopgap option for the rotation. The Mets pitching staff, particularly their starters, have been riddled with injuries. While Williams’ 5.06 ERA and a1.534 WHiP are not stellar, he has struck out more than a batter per inning while taking the ball every fifth day. He is, if nothing else, a reasonable option as the fifth starter.

The Mets had been talking a big game, saying that they wanted to build a championship caliber team. They needed to make this type of move, especially after the Dodgers and Padres have been upgrading their rosters. It is also possible that this trade can have long term ramifications given the friendship between Baez and Lindor, making an extension possible.

The New York Mets have finally made their big move. In reuniting Javier Baez and Francisco Lindor, they have improved the middle of their infield substantially.