As the trade deadline nears, many names have popped up as potential blockbusters for the New York Mets. One of the most crucial positions to fill is center field. However, there is one player who would be a fascinating get for the Mets in the outfield. A player who could change the Mets in the future as well.
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One of the most intriguing names out there for New York is Oneil Cruz. Cruz hasn’t been talked about as much as players like Byron Buxton or Jarren Duran. Cruz is 26 years old and is the best position player on the rebuilding Pittsburgh Pirates. However, it is evident that Cruz is becoming more and more of a trade candidate.
If the Mets don’t just go after a rental, then Cruz would be a fascinating trade. Cruz really hasn’t even scratched his potential. Technically, with the exit velocity that Cruz has, Cruz should be capable of 40+ homers. In his so far short career, however, the most homers Cruz has is just 21.
This season, Cruz is on pace for 27, but that still isn’t that good. Cruz is hitting just .212 with 37 RBIs and 116 strikeouts. So offensively, he has struggled immensely. However, at the same time, Cruz has a massive roof, or in other words, has superstar potential.
Why This Trade Makes Sense for Pittsburgh
The Pirates are among the worst sports franchises in recent history. Since 1993, the Pirates have had just three seasons above .500. The Pirates need to be better, especially when it comes to young stars. Unfortunately for Pittsburgh, they lack top prospects, and their former “future stars” are no longer what they could’ve been.
By trading Cruz, the Pirates can possibly acquire young stars. The Mets have plenty of good players, including a good farm system and MLB-ready players. If the Pirates want to become better soon, they should definitely trade Cruz. The only reason why the Washington Nationals have a good future is that they traded Juan Soto. The Pirates need to try to do the same thing. The Pirates have an opportunity that they simply cannot look away from.
This season, Pittsburgh simply needs to sell as much as possible and reset. The young core just isn’t there yet. The Mets can help with such issues when it comes to a trade for Cruz.
The Mets Need a Good Outfielder, Not a Mediocre One
First, let’s try to shoot down some targets for center field. Harrison Bader would be a ridiculous get because of his struggling bat. Duran wouldn’t be the worst trade in the world, but his history isn’t excellent. Luis Robert Jr. would be quite the get, but Robert Jr. is a risky trade target for New York nonetheless. The Mets need to prioritize this position and balance their lineup.
Center field cannot just be ignored. Third base should be second to center field. Oneil Cruz can become the answer to the Mets’ issues in center. Cruz is risky, as his offense hasn’t gotten much better. Cruz also strikes out a lot, can play some bad defense, and overall can be underwhelming at the plate. However, Cruz’s roof is absolutely insane. Cruz can be a good defender with excellent power at his best.
Perhaps a change of scenery could get Cruz going. If the Mets are to compete now and in the future, then this is the target. Cruz hasn’t quite reached his full potential as a superstar. Hopefully, New York sees this and acts before it’s too late.
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