New York Mets Need an Impact Player for Christmas
By Matt Turner
@mturnerny
Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Linked to each other for some time now, the New York Mets and Colorado Rockies have resumed trade talks regarding All-Star shortstop, Troy Tulowitzki. Although sources say there is only a five percent chance of the trade happening, the Mets have the right idea. Looking forward to being competitive in 2015, the Mets just need to add one more quality player to put alongside David Wright and Curtis Granderson.
Although it seems unlikely that Tulowitzki will be the player to solve the Mets’ wishes, they shouldn’t give up on their pursuit of an above-average player. Obviously, swinging for the fences and going for Tulo would be the best move for the Mets, but there are several other options for them.
Shortstop is, perhaps, the biggest weakness on the Mets’ roster, with Wilmer Flores currently filling the position. Other options might be the Chicago White Sox SS Alexei Ramirez, or the Chicago Cubs SS Starlin Castro. However, Castro seems very far from a possibility, and the deal required to get him might be similar to the one used to acquire Tulo. If that’s the case, the latter would be better than the former.
Early in free agency the Mets signed Michael Cuddyer to play right field. As a right-handed bat, he has the opportunity to relieve Lucas Duda of time at first against lefties. As an aging player, the Mets may also give him some time off here and there, especially when you consider he’s coming off an injury. Due to these circumstances, New York may look to invest in another corner outfielder.
Players like Jonny Gomes or Ryan Ludwick could provide a nice boost to the lineup. They would both be able to hit sixth in the order, similar to Cuddyer, and maintain the Mets’ lengthy lineup. The best outfield choice, however, would be former Kansas City Royals OF Nori Aoki. He would become an impact player at the top of the line up, allowing Wright, Granderson, and Duda to hit with more runners on base.
Regardless of position, the Mets need to make a move. Even just one more move could push them into the realm of being a real threat. That’s what should be on the Mets’ Christmas list this year.
Matt Turner is a New York Mets writer for www.RantSports.com. “Like” him on Facebook, follow him on Twitter @MturnerNY, or add him to your network on LinkedIn or Google.
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