Meet the Mets
General manager Brodie Van Wagenen is reportedly on the verge of landing second baseman Robinson Cano and closer Edwin Diaz via trade. MLB.com’s Anthony DiComo noted that Jay Bruce and Anthony Swarzak are likely bound for the Seattle Mariners. Outfielder Jarred Kelenic and pitcher Justin Dunn, two of the Mets’ top prospects, have been mentioned as potential pieces of the package, as has relief prospect Gerson Bautista.
The Seattle Times’ Ryan Divish argued that the deal doesn’t make sense for the Mariners without Kelenic.
Cano, Van Wagenen’s former client, was reportedly displeased when the Mariners moved him off second base last season, suggesting Jeff McNeil could be part of the trade or move to third base.
Yahoo’s Jeff Passan likes the deal for the Mets, describing it as a risk worth taking in order to win now.
Regardless of how one feels about the deal, Van Wagenen is showing he’s unafraid to make bold moves.
Around the National League East
Fox Sports South/Southeast has hired former Braves and Mets outfielder Jeff Francouer to serve as lead analyst for Braves television broadcasts.
Fish Stripes’ Michael Picardi expressed delight with a recent addition to the Marlins farm system, outfielder Harold Ramirez.
The Nationals have improved their bullpen this offseason, but they still need another left-hander, according to Federal Baseball’s Matt Weyrich.
Around Major League Baseball
Edinson Volquez and the Rangers have agreed to a one-year, $2 million contract. The righty didn’t pitch in 2018 following Tommy John surgery.
The Dodgers are among the teams that have discussed a Corey Kluber trade with the Indians.
Yesterday at Amazin’ Avenue
Chris McShane wrote an update on the Cano deal, noting that the Mariners will send cash the Mets’ way.
He also offered up a reminder that New York has zero payroll obligations for the 2020 season.
The Amazin’ Avenue Audio crew discussed ... you guessed it: the Cano trade.
This Date in Mets History
In 2012, the Mets inked David Wright to the largest deal in club history, a seven-year, $138 million extension.