RADIO
The New York Mets are “very interested” in Ben Zobrist and the reigning National League champions are trying to make it happen, according to The New York Times.
It appears as if this isn’t just a rumor because the Mets met with Zobrist’s representatives at the GM meetings and then held a conference call with the utility player on Wednesday. There’s a realistic chance that New York could be the landing spot for the free agent. Zobrist is drawing interest from around 10 teams. His value skyrocketed with his performance in the postseason with the Kanas City Royals. After finishing the regular season with 13 HR, 56 RBI and a .276 BA in 126 games between the Royals and the Oakland A’s, the two-time All-Star delivered a .303 BA in 16 games with 2 HR, 6 RBI and 7 BB. He was arguably the Royals best player and most clutch as they defeated the Mets for the World Series.
League source says Mets are “very interested” in Ben Zobrist. Had a conference call with him today, also met his reps at GM meetings
— Tim Rohan (@TimRohan) November 18, 2015
The upside is that Zobrist can not only hit, but he can play quality defense at second base, shortstop and outfield. He probably can play the corner infield positions too. The problem is that he will be 35-years-old before the start of the season. He’s expected to get a four-year contract, which could be the one reason not as many teams will really go after him. If the Mets are willing to give him four years, Zobrist could very well be wearing a Mets uniform next season.
The Mets fell short in the World Series. One of the reasons they lost was because of their defense. As hot as Daniel Murphy was throughout the postseason, his defense was exposed against Kansas City. Wilmer Flores had to become the shortstop after Ruben Tejada was injured on the Chase Utley slide in the NLDS. Flores isn’t a bad hitter, but his defense was also exposed in the World Series. Zobrist would be a major upgrade on defense for New York.
The Washington Nationals, St. Louis Cardinals and the Royals are among some of the teams interested in acquiring Zobrist. There’s a hcnace that a deal could be come within the next few days.
