Now, before Mets fans everywhere go ballistic over the thought of trading either player or even both, at least hear me out and decide for yourselves.
I admit, Murphy was one of the last players I’d ever consider for placing on the chopping block. The only reason why I never thought about trading him is because he’s a fantastic hitter and the Mets aren’t a team full of hitters.
According to this link, our Mets were near the bottom of the league with a team batting average of .239. Now, the Mets hitting woes aren’t new and shouldn’t be a surprise to anyone. And the fact of the matter is, if you don’t hit, your not going to win many games. And if that happens this year with our young guns in our starting rotation, it would be a real shame. Murphy was easily our best hitter last season with a .289 BA in 143 games with 596 ABs. He’s a very disciplined hitter and doesn’t strikeout a whole lot. And the best part is, he’s still young which ups his trade value. And, it no secret that teams are interested in Daniel.
By now you’re wondering why trade a player like Murphy. It’s simple. He can’t field. If he can field the way he hits I’d be all in on Murphy. But, lets be honest here: how many times has Murphy botched a routine ground ball, only to later surprise us with a spectacular diving stop? You really never know what you’re going to get out of Murphy at second base. It shouldn’t have to be a surprise or an adventure at second base.
I’m not expecting a Brandon Phillips or a Dustin Pedroia type performance from Murphy (although it would be nice), I just want a legit second basemen for the Met’s. Because as is, he’ll cost us runs and games, and that will hurt our pitching and the team as a whole.
Now, on to Syndergaard. I see the potential oozing out of this guy. We got him out of the R.A Dicky deal along with Travis D’Arnaud. He’s a hard thrower with a 98 MPH fastball, good curveball and has a change-up as a great option for a third pitch. Even though he’s one of our top prospects, I’m not completely sold on him yet.
I know he’s struggling a bit in Las Vegas and I know its not grounds to discredit the guy but, he has the great habit of striking people out. And that’s always good. His ERA is a little high this season at 4.60 but with 26 games started, 133 IP, 145 SO and 43 BB its rather impressive considering IP but still, his ERA is rather high. As far as I know the Rockies are the only team asking for Syndergaard, and I’m glad we didn’t make a deal for Tulo. But can he stay healthy? That’s not something anyone should take a chance on. It would be one big expensive mistake if he get hurt again. But, if the Rockies are making offers such as that, who’s not to say we couldn’t get a legit second basemen from another team if the offer is right? Although I’m not happy with Flores at shortstop and Scott Rice in the pen, Sandy Alderson seems to be fine with that.
If the ‘Amazins want to make a run for 2015-16, upgrades at short and second will be needed. But if we can’t upgrade at SS (with someone who’s not Tulo) or a better lefty for the pen we should at least focus at second base. If those areas aren’t addressed, we could be in for a long season.
