New York Mets trade rumors: Nelson Cruz is not the answer

The New York Mets lineup has been one of the best in baseball. They rank third in the National League in runs scored (401) and fourth in OPS (.730) heading into Friday, a key part of why they are atop the NL East despite the injuries in their rotation.

However, the Mets’ lineup has holes. Their 81 homers are 11th in the NL. Catcher, third base, and the designated hitter spots have struggled offensively this year. Those struggles have led the Mets to explore the trade market, including their reported interest in Nelson Cruz.

Nelson Cruz not the upgrade New York Mets need

On paper, that interest in Cruz makes sense. He has been a prolific slugger over the years, someone who can change the outcome of a game with one swing of the bat. A respected veteran and clubhouse leader, he has aged like a fine scotch.

But there comes a time when age catches up to everyone. That appears to be the case with Cruz, as he has produced a .239/.321/.365 batting line with eight homers and 12 doubles in his 323 plate appearances entering Friday. The power is still there, but the bat is beginning to slow down.

While Cruz has been better than the Mets’ designated hitters, the gap is not that wide. The Mets have received a combined .225/.299/.345 batting line with six homers in 384 plate appearances from the DH slot. In fact, J.D. Davis, who has received the most time as the Mets’ DH, has been better than Cruz, posting a .253/.337/.373 batting line with three homers and eight doubles in his 181 plate appearances.

It is easy to be tempted to add pieces at the trade deadline. The Mets certainly need to, especially behind the plate. However, those moves only make sense if the player in question is an actual upgrade. At this point in his career, Nelson Cruz is not.

The New York Mets are reportedly interested in Nelson Cruz. At this point in his career, he is not the upgrade they need for their lineup.