In a move that prioritizes defense, the New York Mets have completed a stunning trade with the Texas Rangers that marks the strategic direction the franchise will take under the leadership of president of operations David Stearns.
On Sunday night, the Mets traded their veteran outfielder and fan favorite Brandon Nimmo to the Rangers in exchange for star second baseman Marcus Semien, league sources confirmed, which generated shock and also demonstrated the clear convictions within the team to continue building the roster.
Mets prioritize defense
The trade underscores Stearns’ promise to make defense the main focus of the offseason. Semien, despite a modest offensive line last season (.230/.305/.364 with 15 home runs), is coming off winning his second Gold Glove. According to Statcast, he recorded seven outs above average, placing him in the 92nd percentile in MLB range and proving to be an elite base runner.
Stearns had been clear in previous meetings: “The first thing is to recognize that defense is as important as offense… Sometimes we forget about the other side of the ball.” Semien’s contract, which runs through 2026, has $72 million remaining over the next three seasons.
The Mets are going for Tucker or Bellinger
The departure of Nimmo, a left-handed hitter who has $102 million remaining on his contract over five seasons, opens up a salary hole and an outfield spot that could be filled by high-caliber free agents.
the Mets plan to pursue Kyle Tucker or Cody Bellinger
Criticism of Carlos Mendoza
Carlos Mendoza is still receiving the brunt of the criticism.I don’t think he has any idea what he’s doing with the relievers, how to keep them healthy or how to care for them. There’s no communication, there’s no empathy, there’s no tact when someone gets hurt
,” Ottavino said, who sees no future with the Mets while Mendoza is in charge.
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