Mets Morning News: Edwinter is coming

Meet the Mets

Late last night, the Mets and Mariners finalized their long-rumored blockbuster trade. All-Star second baseman Robinson Cano and elite young closer Edwin Diaz are heading to Queens in exchange for Jay Bruce, Anthony Swarzak, first-round picks Justin Dunn and Jarred Kelenic, and reliever Gerson Bautista. The Mariners will also be sending $20 million to the Mets in the deal.

Joel Sherman discusses the risk of taking on a player coming off an 80-game suspension owed big money.

But the big prize in assuming those risks of course, is also acquiring star closer Edwin Diaz, who is younger and better than any free agent reliever available by a significant margin. The Mariners went 61-0 in games in which Diaz came in for a save last season.

However, Howard Megdal is critical of the trade, arguing that this is a typical Wilpon move made in place of spending big money on Manny Machado or Bryce Harper.

But, the Mets aren’t done yet. Mike Puma looks at the plan for the rest of the offseason.

With Yan Gomes having been traded to the Nationals, Yasmani Grandal might be back in play for the Mets. In contrast, the Mets do not appear to be interested in Wilson Ramos—the other notable free agent catcher available—citing concerns about his defense.

The Mets have reached out to the Indians about Corey Kluber, who the Indians are notably shopping this offseason. Mickey Callaway was Kluber’s pitching coach in Cleveland.

Around the National League East

With four teams approaching the offseason looking to compete next year, the NL East is baseball’s most interesting division, writes Joel Sherman.

The Mets aren’t the only NL East club talking to the Mariners. The Phillies are interested in a possible trade for Jean Segura and the Mariners are interested in J.P. Crawford as part of the return.

Nick Cafardo of The Boston Globe reports that the Braves are targeting free agent starter Dallas Keuchel.

The Nationals continue to pursue an Anthony Rendon extension.

The Marlins have tendered contracts to all of their arbitration-eligible players.

Around Major League Baseball

George H.W. Bush passed away on Friday at the age of 94. Richard Justice writes about how important baseball was for the former president.

Bill Madden reviews and explains his choices for the Hall of Fame. Placido Polanco is among them.

The Royals have no plans to trade catcher Salvador Perez, according to Rustin Dodd of The Athletic. They are willing to listen to offers on second baseman Whit Merrifield, but are unlikely to deal him either.

Joe Giglio of NJ.com predicts that whoever gives Patrick Corbin a big contract may end up experiencing some buyer’s remorse.

For once, the Rays have some money to spend. And they are targeting top-shelf talent this winter.

Mike Petriello predicts where Billy Hamilton may end up, now that he’s been cut loose by the Reds.

Yesterday at Amazin’ Avenue

Chris McShane and Thomas Henderson covered the updates on and completion of the Mets-Mariners megadeal, respectively.

Yesterday’s trade was a win now move. It’s time for the Mets to go for it, writes Nathan Gismot.

This Date in Mets History

Yesterday the Mets acquired a big name second baseman, but historically this day in Mets history has been all about the hot corner.