According to a report in yesterday's NY Post the New York Mets appear to be in the market for a big bat, most notably Houston Astros outfielder Carlos Lee.
Following the Mets horrid loss Sunday to the New York Yankees, rumors have spread throughout the organization that the current crop may not be enough to get it done. The Mets currently trail the NL East leading Phillies by 3 games, and sit ½ game out of the NL Wild Card race.
To no fault of their own the Mets have been desecrated by injuries, and need to make a move to stop the bleeding.
While Lee, who is is batting .309 11hrs, and 40rbi, would be a perfect fit for the Mets, who desperately lack a power outfield bat, don't expect him to be the only option. Lee, who is scheduled to make 19 million dollars this year, would be an expensive addition for the Mets.
Expect the Mets more likely options to include Nationals first baseman Nick Johnson, Orioles outfielder Luke Scott or Orioles first baseman Aubrey Huff. Look for the Nationals to begin moving pieces soon, in order to clear up money to make a serious run at Stephen Strasburg. For the Orioles I would expect the annual Peter Angelos yard sale to begin shortly. However, in order to obtain any of these players the Mets will have to part with young pitching. Teams will most likely ask for pitcher Bobby Parnell or pitcher Jonathon Niese, both of who the Mets don't seem inclined to deal. Stay tuned to see how this story develops.