The list of top-tier MLB free agents is getting short, but there are still MLB rumors surrounding some of the names near the top of that list, including a pair of players with ties to the New York Mets.
MLB rumors: Michael Conforto last man standing
With Michael Brantley reportedly signing a deal on Sunday to return to the Houston Astros, Michael Conforto could well be considered the last best choice for teams that are looking to fill a vacancy in their outfield. Conforto missed all of last season with shoulder issues and is reportedly looking for a shorter term deal to restore his market value and prove he is healthy enough to contribute to a lineup.
Conforto, who will turn 30 on March 1, is a career .255/.356/.468 hitter with an OPS+ of 124.
Teams reportedly still in on Conforto include the Mets (where he played his first seven MLB seasons), Texas Rangers, Chicago Cubs, Miami Marlins, New York Yankees, and possibly the Seattle Mariners as well. Could it come down to a battle of New York where the Mets are rumored to want to add more offense while the Yankees still have a need in left field?
MLB rumors: Seth Lugo heading west?
According to MLB insider Jon Heyman, the Los Angeles Dodgers and San Diego Padres may be the strongest suitors for former Mets pitcher Seth Lugo.
Seth Lugo looks like a Dodgers-Padres battle. Nats have been in, too.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) December 18, 2022
The 33-year-old right-hander saw action in 62 games out of the bullpen for the Mets last season, sporting a 3.60 ERA/3.76 FIP/1.169 WHIP. While Lugo proved to be an effective weapon for New York last season in relief, he is reportedly looking to have the opportunity to become a starter again, something he hasn’t done since making seven starts during the pandemic-shortened season of 2020.
Los Angeles has fortified its rotation this offseason by bringing back Clayton Kershaw and signing Noah Syndergaard. The Padres, however, could arguably use more help than their NL West rivals at the back end of their bullpen, meaning San Diego could have more incentive and reason to ink him and see what value he can bring to the Padres in what could be a very versatile role.