MLB Trade Rumors: New York Mets Seeking Outfield Help?
With a weak lineup that was nearly no-hit by Clayton Kershaw, the New York Mets are desperate for some offensive production. Several of their regulars are dealing with injuries, and their current crop of player’s are not producing. But the team is reportedly actively seeking help, primarily for their outfield.
According to Jon Morosi of Fox Sports, the Mets currently have an interest in San Diego Padres outfielder Will Venable. In addition to Venable, the team has been connected to Milwaukee Brewers speedster Gerardo Parra.
#Mets showing interest in Will Venable, in addition to Gerardo Parra, among left-handed outfield options. #Cubs like both too.
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) July 22, 2015
But as Morosi notes, the Mets are not the only team interested in the services of both outfielders. The Chicago Cubs have been one of the more engaged teams over the past few days, including their reported interest in Detroit Tigers left-hander David Price. The real question is, would Venable and/or Parra represent a substantial improvement to jump start the offense?
Parra, 28, is due to become a free agent after this year, so he may just be a rental at this point. But he is having a good season, batting .316 with nine HR and 31 RBI. He is also a versatile outfielder, capable of playing all three outfield positions.
As for Venable, the 32-year-old long-time San Diego Padre is batting just .246 with six HR and 22 RBI. His numbers are inferior to Parra’s production on the season and Venable is four years older, thus making him less ideal for the team. However, based off their production, neither player represents that significant bat the team desires.
So, would the Mets consider upgrading at another position if the crop of outfielders is scarce?
According to Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports, the Mets are not likely to add a third baseman, despite their captain David Wright injured with spinal stenosis and his future in doubt. The team was rumored to be interested in Aramis Ramirez, but he was dealt to Pittsburgh yesterday in the second notable pre-deadline trade.
#Mets don’t believe they need third baseman; defense better with Murphy at 3B than 2B. Want slugging OFer, ideally under control beyond ’15. — Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) July 23, 2015
The Mets big offseason acquisition, outfield Michael Cuddyer, is battling injuries and has been ineffective when on the field. With his future uncertain, the Mets do need outfield help, but it appears it will not be the type of help they need. Fans and even the team likely dream of acquiring slugger Venable’s team, Justin Upton from the Padres. But the Mets will face stiff competition to land his services.
[Image by Christian Petersen/Getty Images]
