As we embark on the final two games of the season, the Mets will enter into an offseason of uncertainty with money to spend.
Remember, just because they have X amount coming off the books doesn’t mean they’re going to spend it all. Let’s look at who’s coming off the books.
- Johan Santana: $25.5 million in ’13. He’ll be bought out for $5.5 million.
- Frank Francisco: $6.5 million in ’13. Free agent.
There’s other money coming off the books as well, so let’s look at where the Mets’ potential needs are.
- Veteran Starter
- First Base
- Shortstop
- Outfield
Projected team thus far going into next year:
- C- Travis D’Arnaud
- 1B- Ike Davis, Lucas Duda or Acquisition
- 2B- Daniel Murphy unless traded
- 3B- David Wright
- SS- Ruben Tejada or Acquisition
- LF- Unknown
- CF- Juan Legares
- RF- Unknown
- Likely on Roster: Justin Turner, Ike Davis, Lucas Duda
- SP: Wheeler, Niese, Gee, Harvey (?), Unknown
Potential Targets
- Shin Soo Choo- Really likes it in Cincinnati but money talks. Since he’s north of 30, I’d hate to give him too long a deal, but he fits the moneyball philosophy perfectly. As Jonah Hill said in Moneyball, he’s the “Greek God of OBP”. Likelihood: Good Chance.
- Jacoby Ellsbury- Really talented, but too injury prone. He’d fit right in at the top of the lineup, but I think his asking price and durability concerns scare the Mets away. Likelihood: Possible, but unlikely.
- Robinson Cano- Keep dreaming fans. We have a second baseman. Although he’s much better, it doesn’t address a serious need, and would be a waste of resources. Likelihood: Slim to none.
- Nelson Cruz: Would address the Mets’ need for power in right field. Despite his suspension, I still think he nets at least a three-year deal on the open market, and he’ll probably be someone the Mets seriously look at. Likelihood: Possible.
- Carlos Beltran: His Mets’ days are behind him, and it’s no secret he doesn’t like the spotlight New York provides. I’d consider a reunion as likely as a Cano signing. Likelihood: Slim to none.
- Bronson Arroyo: Seems like the Mets are connected to him in some fashion every off-season, but this might be the year they swoop in. My gut tells me that this is one that will come to fruition. Likelihood: Good Chance.
- Jhonny Peralta: Was having a great year before suspended, would address the Mets’ need for consistency at shortstop. I still don’t think it’s a probable fit. Likelihood: Possible, but unlikely.
Who do you want to see the Mets go after in free agency? Tell us in the comments section below.
