New York Mets need to keep Dominic Smith

Dominic Smith does not seem to have a role with the New York Mets moving forward. The Mets have upgraded their outfield, pushing Smith out of a starting role. Pete Alonso is entrenched at first base, closing off another avenue for playing time. And with Robinson Cano likely to see the majority of the plate appearances as the Mets’ designated hitter, Smith is relegated to being a depth piece.

It is not a surprise that his name has been floated on the trade block. He was the supposed return in a rumored trade between the Mets and Padres, with Smith heading to San Diego for Chris Paddack, Emilio Pagan, and Eric Hosmer’s contract. Such a deal would have made some sense on both sides.

Dominic Smith more valuable to New York Mets as insurance

Those roadblocks also come with question marks. Brandon Nimmo, the Mets’ likely right fielder, has just one season where he has appeared in over 100 games. Although he has been healthy in 2020 and 2021, Nimmo’s track record and injury history makes it difficult to count on him for the entire upcoming season.

The same can be said of Cano. He missed the entire 2021 season due to his PED suspension, and while he had a strong showing in 2020, that was in the pandemic shortened season. At 39 years old, and with that year off, it is difficult to trust that Cano will be an answer in the lineup as well.

Smith did not exactly have a stellar 2021 season. He posted a disappointing .244/.304/.363 batting line in his 493 plate appearances, hitting 11 homers and 20 doubles. The Mets were certainly hoping for a lot more power, especially after Smith had hit 21 homers and 31 doubles in his 396 plate appearances over the previous two seasons.

But there is the hope that he can return to form. Smith would have plenty of suitors if he was on the trade block due to his power potential and ability to play at first and the corner outfield spots. He just may not bring back enough to make a deal worthwhile, especially given the questions in certain areas of their roster.

There has been plenty of talk about Dominic Smith as a trade chip. Instead, the New York Mets need to hold on to him as an insurance policy.