With a 33-41 record, the New York Mets entered June 13.5 games behind the Atlanta Braves in the National League East and 5.5 games out of the final Wild Card spot, prompting speculation about potential roster moves, according to multiple industry sources.
Why the Mets Are Considering Roster Moves
The Mets’ struggles have been compounded by a lack of consistent offensive production and bullpen instability. As of June 5, the team ranked 11th in the 15-team NL with a .248 team batting average and 12th in ERA at 4.32, per Baseball-Reference. A league source familiar with the organization confirmed that general manager Billy Eppler has initiated “exploratory conversations” with other teams about potential trades.
“The priority is to strengthen the rotation and add a power bat,” said a person with knowledge of the team’s strategy. “They’re looking for players who can impact the postseason picture.”
Top 10 Trade Candidates and Their Fit
Here are 10 players currently under discussion as potential trade targets, evaluated based on their skill sets, contract terms, and fit with the Mets’ needs:
1. Blake Treinen (RHP, Cincinnati Reds)
The 35-year-old reliever, with a 3.27 ERA and 1.19 WHIP this season, has been a consistent option for teams seeking a veteran presence. The Reds, facing a rebuild, are open to trading him, according to The Athletic. Treinen’s $5.5 million salary for 2024 is manageable, and his experience could stabilize a Mets bullpen that has allowed 164 runs in 58 games.
2. Luis Arraez (2B, Miami Marlins)
The 28-year-old All-Star, hitting .316 with 14 home runs, is a prime candidate for a team needing offensive firepower. The Marlins, in a salary-cap crunch, have indicated they are open to trading their star, per ESPN. Arraez’s ability to hit for average and power could address the Mets’ need for a reliable middle-of-the-order bat.
3. Nick Castellanos (OF, Detroit Tigers)
The 32-year-old slugger, with 22 home runs and a .281 batting average, is a proven performer. The Tigers, looking to shed salary, have floated Castellanos as a trade option, according to MLB.com. His power-hitting and defensive versatility could complement the Mets’ lineup, though his $18 million salary for 2024 raises concerns.
4. Jordan Montgomery (RHP, Minnesota Twins)
The 30-year-old right-hander, with a 3.81 ERA and 1.24 WHIP, is a potential rotation upgrade. The Twins, seeking position-player assets, are open to moving him, per The New York Post. Montgomery’s consistency and ability to eat innings could help the Mets’ struggling starting staff, which has a 5.12 ERA in 2024.
5. Kyle Farmer (INF, Cincinnati Reds)
The 31-year-old utility player, hitting .273 with 10 home runs, offers defensive flexibility. The Reds, rebuilding, have considered trading him, according to CBS Sports. Farmer’s ability to play multiple positions could provide depth for the Mets, who have struggled with injuries in the infield.
6. Jameson Taillon (LHP, Pittsburgh Pirates)
The 32-year-old lefty, with a 3.59 ERA and 1.22 WHIP, is a potential rotation addition. The Pirates, in a long-term rebuild, are open to trading him, per The Athletic. Taillon’s left-handed presence could help neutralize opposing lineups, but his $12 million salary for 2024 is a hurdle.
7. Austin Riley (3B, Atlanta Braves)
The 28-year-old star, hitting .264 with 24 home runs, is a high-impact option. The Braves, competing for a playoff spot, have not indicated they’re moving him, according to MLB.com. However, a trade could be considered if the Mets offer a package of young prospects, as speculated by ESPN.
8. Luis Garcia (RHP, Houston Astros)
The 29-year-old reliever, with a 2.92 ERA and 1.08 WHIP, is a potential bullpen upgrade. The Astros, facing a salary dump, are open to trading him, per The New York Times. Garcia’s late-inning reliability could address the Mets’ bullpen woes, though his $6 million salary for 2024 is a factor.
9. Mitch Keller (RHP, Pittsburgh Pirates)
The 28-year-old right-hander, with a 3.95 ERA and 1.29 WHIP, is a rotation
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