Now that Carlos Correa’s deal with the Mets has fizzled, the team’s options for an upgrade to the lineup — at least during the offseason — appear limited.
The most likely scenario is the Mets will wait until the trade deadline and attempt to secure a big bat if needed from a club that is removed from playoff contention.
It doesn’t mean the Mets can’t try to find an answer this winter. A few possibilities:
1. Bryan Reynolds
The Pirates outfielder has been among the game’s most discussed trade candidates this offseason following his request to be dealt. Acquiring Reynolds would allow the Mets to utilize Mark Canha as a fourth outfielder and DH option, squeezing out Darin Ruf. Last season Reynolds posted an .807 OPS. He still has three seasons until free agency.
2. Fernando Tatis Jr.
The Padres star has been cleared to resume baseball activities following labrum and wrist surgery. He is eligible to return from a PED suspension in April. Is it possible he’s worn out his welcome in San Diego?
3. Anthony Rendon
He’s coming off two straight injury-shortened seasons, but the former All-Star third baseman was signed by general manager Billy Eppler with the Angels and might not cost the Mets much in terms of prospects given that he’s still owed $140 million over the next four years. Rendon underwent wrist surgery in June, but returned for the final week of the regular season.
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Sit tight
Eduardo Escobar rebounded over the final month last season after a sluggish stretch to begin his Mets career and Bret Baty remains the organization’s future at third base. The veteran Escobar, in concert with the rookie Baty, might be enough to solidify the Mets that another acquisition isn’t needed.
The Mets were headed in this direction until reversing course toward Correa last month.
— Mike Puma
