Mets trade rumors: Blue Jays have discussed Jay Bruce trade with Mets

The Blue Jays have discussed a potential trade for Jay Bruce with the Mets, according to Jim Bowden. The Blue Jays are looking for a left-handed batter to platoon with Melvin Upton, who struggled significantly at the plate in 2016 with an 84 wRC+. Bowden also mentioned that the Blue Jays are “in on” free agent outfielder Josh Reddick.

The Mets would do well to unload Bruce, who quickly became notorious for his lack of production after joining the Mets at the trade deadline. His struggles at the plate, combined with lackluster outfield defense, made him a far cry from the game-changer fans were expecting.

Looking forward, Bruce is largely superfluous. The Mets have a glut of outfielders, with Curtis Granderson, Michael Conforto, and Juan Lagares under team control through at least the next year. Additionally, should the Mets re-sign Yoenis Cespedes, Bruce could be a fifth outfielder. Some infield depth or a bullpen arm would likely serve the team better as they prepare for another run at the World Series.