The New York Mets are currently in the midst of a challenging stretch, posting a disappointing 7-13 record in their last 20 games.
Despite these struggles, they remain one of the top contenders in Major League Baseball, with superstar outfielder Juan Soto leading the charge. However, the team’s third base position has been a weak spot, prompting rumors that the Mets could make a move before the trade deadline.
At third base, the Mets have relied on Brett Baty and Mark Vientos to fill the gap. However, neither player has been able to produce consistently. Baty has shown potential but has failed to capitalize on it, while Vientos has struggled to find a rhythm at the plate.
As a result, the Mets are ranked near the bottom of MLB in offensive production from third base. With their playoff aspirations still alive, it’s clear that the Mets will need to address this weak spot to remain competitive in the second half of the season.
This has led to speculation that Mets President of Baseball Operations, David Stearns, will look to make an external acquisition before the trade deadline. One name that has recently emerged as a potential target is two-time All-Star Alex Bregman.
Mets linked to Alex Bregman as a trade target
Bregman, who signed a three-year, $120 million contract with the Boston Red Sox in the offseason, has been performing at a high level. Before landing on the 10-day injured list with a right quad strain, Bregman was hitting .299/.385/.553 with 11 home runs, 35 RBIs, and a .938 OPS in 51 games.
His performance earned him a Gold Glove award at third base for the 2024 season, further solidifying his value.
With the Red Sox struggling and Bregman potentially opting out of his contract at the end of the year, Boston may be open to trading the 31-year-old if they believe he will leave in free agency.
The Mets could seize the opportunity to acquire a proven third baseman, bolstering their lineup for a playoff push. Bregman’s blend of offense and defense could provide the Mets with a significant upgrade at a critical position.
Potential trade package for Bregman
In a trade proposal by Bleacher Report’s Zachary D. Rymer, the Mets would send designated hitter Starling Marte and their No. 3 prospect, right-handed pitcher Nolan McLean, to the Red Sox in exchange for Bregman.
Marte, who is owed $10.4 million this season, would help balance the financials in the trade, while McLean, a promising young pitcher with a 2.25 ERA this season, could be a valuable asset for Boston as they rebuild their pitching depth.
Marte, despite dealing with injuries over the past few years, is still a solid hitter, and his contract will expire at the end of the season. For Boston, acquiring McLean would be an investment in their future, especially with his excellent slider and impressive minor league numbers.
In conclusion, with their struggles at third base, the Mets could look to bolster their roster by pursuing Alex Bregman. If the Red Sox are willing to move him, a trade that includes Marte and McLean could help New York shore up its infield while staying competitive in the playoff race.
With the trade deadline approaching, the Mets’ front office will need to act quickly to secure this potential game-changer.
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