Problems continue to mount for the Mets, who cut right-hander Jacob deGrom from his last scheduled start against the San Diego Pades. Although manager Terry Collins said the decision was a matter of weather and not physical, fans should be at least a little concerned.
After all, the club that was supposed to compete with Washington for the NL East championship is currently 7 1/2 games out of first. Even more distressing for fans is the fact that the Mets are six games under .500, a disappointing record for a club that won the pennant in 2015 and made the playoffs last season.
Some pundits suggest New York should give up the 2017 season, as the Mets have already lost key figures to injuries. All-Star slugger Yoenis Cespides is currently on the disabled list, as is starter Noah Syndergaard and veteran third baseman David Wright.
Baseball columnist Tom Gatto sportsnews.com he recommended that the Mets give playing time to their top prospects, who will speed up the rebuilding process. Among those who should be promoted from the minor leagues, according to Gatto, are third baseman Amed Rosario, first baseman Dominic Smith, second baseman Gavin Cecchini and outfielder Brandon Nimmo.
For these youngsters to get playing time, the Mets need to trade some of their regular veterans. Several of his former All-Stars are in the final year of their contracts, which makes it easier for them to deal with teams that need to beef up their rosters to have a shot at the postseason.
There are three players in particular New York will likely trade to clear the way for its top prospects, starting with infielder Jose Reyes. He has really struggled this year, but he could certainly help a young team with his versatility and his experience.
Outfielder Jay Bruce has displayed the power that has been a hallmark of his career and is eligible for free agency after the season. Many contenders would be happy to add the power of him as a southpaw without having the financial obligation beyond the 2017 season.
Another All-Star outfielder, Curtis Granderson, is on a contract that expires after the 2017 season. He doesn’t offer as much power as Bruce, but he would provide much more agility and better defense for interested contenders.
There is still much of the season left, and the Mets will have several players return from the disabled list in June. They’ve had hot streaks in the second half of the past two years, but the hole they’ve dug after the first two months may be too deep to get over in 2017. New York may be better off preparing for the future.
