For all of those kicking and screaming about the return the Mets got when they dealt Jay Bruce to the Cleveland Indians Wednesday night for Single-A righty Ryder Ryan, it’s time to take a step back and calm your pits.
For those who’ve been living under a rock the past couple of months, newsflash…the season is over. All initiatives are now geared toward 2018 and beyond, as they should be, and this is the latest example. It started when the Mets send Lucas Duda to Tampa Bay for Drew Smith, and continued when Addison Reed was dealt to Boston for three pitchers. Now, despite being past the non-waiver deadline, Jay Bruce cleared waivers and was dealt to Cleveland for his second stint in the state of Ohio. Of course, most of the damage he’s done in his career was as a Cincinnati Red.
Jay Bruce released the following statement, via Marc Carig of Newsday on Twitter.
As for Ryder Ryan, here’s a quick look at his minor league stats, courtesy of Baseball America.
Moving on to what happens now. Are any other guys susceptible? Why the heck not? The only thing that would have made me happier about this deal (other than a better prospect or two) would have been if Asdrubal Cabrera was heading back to the Tribe, but he is still decked out in orange and blue…for now. Other guys who could be available are Neil Walker and Curtis Granderson, both slated to be free agents. Veteran backup Renee Rivera could have some value, but I wouldn’t imagine much materializing there.
An interesting fact is Joel Shelman reported the Yankees were in on Jay Bruce, so maybe they can shift their attention to Granderson. He knows how to shine in New York and wouldn’t cost much. But would the Mets help their crosstown foes? If it gets them another live arm, they should, and it would open some space for them to evaluate another young player.
For now, I’d imagine Dominic Smith gets the call and is installed as the everyday first baseman. With Amed Rosario ingrained at short, that leaves two positions for Jose Reyes, Neil Walker, Wilmer Flores, T.J. Rivera (if he comes back this year) and others. Plus, I am sure a slew of others will come up on Sept. 1.
As for the outfield, I think Conforto will shift to right field, where he belongs. Juan Lagares is close to returning, and Brandon Nimmo can spell him, and Yoenis Cespedes will stay in left. As for Granderson, unless he’s dealt, I think he works best in a backup role at this point.
Jay Bruce was a solid Met, and he was one of their best offensive players this season. I’d have no problem with him winning a World Series Championship in Cleveland.
What do you think of the deal? Do you think Sandy Alderson is doing the right thing? Tell us in the comments section below.
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