The cracks are starting to show for the New York Mets.
It was a matter of time. A team can only overcome so many injuries before they start to slide back in the standings. As the Mets are without their top two starters, a key setup man, and their starting catcher, it is not a surprise that their lead has begun to dissipate. Add in the Braves’ soft schedule right now and it is a perfect storm.
Three trade targets for New York Mets
Although the Mets have several holes on the roster, they are still in solid shape. Not only is the farm system relatively solid, but they have an owner willing to spend anything needed to improve the roster. With their collapse in the final two months last year still fresh in their minds, it would not be a surprise to see the Mets make a splash or two at the deadline.
The New York Mets may be atop the NL East but they still have plenty of holes to fill. Let’s take a look at three potential trade targets.
Willson Contreras
The New York Mets lineup has been impressive everywhere except for one position – catcher.
Even when James McCann returns, the catcher spot will be a problem. McCann’s 59 OPS+ is even lower than nominal backup Tomas Nido, someone who has never been known for his production. While Francisco Alvarez may get a look later this year and is the catcher of the future, it is difficult to entrust the position to a rookie in the middle of a playoff run.
Fortunately, a solid bat behind the plate will likely come available. The Cubs are a disappointment once again, and as Willson Contreras is slated for free agency at the end of the season, a trade seems inevitable.
Contreras would certainly fit the Mets’ lineup. His 152 OPS+ with ten homers and ten doubles would make their lineup even more dangerous from top to bottom. He also would not block Alvarez from being their primary backstop in 2023 due to his impending free agency. While there may be some concerns about his ability to produce in the second half, he is the type of player that the Mets need to target.
The New York Mets need to get something resembling production from the catcher spot. Willson Contreras would be a perfect fit.