Mets rumors: New York interested in Ben Zobrist and Gerardo Parra

While nothing is official until the contracts are signed, it seems likely that Yoenis Cespedes and Daniel Murphy will be playing for a team not named the New York Mets for 2016 and beyond. As a result, the Mets are on the search for their respective replacements, and according to Marc Carig, they've already reached out Ben Zobrist and Gerardo Parra.

Carig notes that Zobrist could take over second base until Dilson Herrera proves he's ready. Zobrist could then shift to other areas on the field, as well as giving David Wright ample opportunities to rest his back. Zobrist would not only represent an offensive upgrade over Murphy, but likely also a significant improvement defensively.

As for Parra, Carig writes that he could form a platoon in center field with Juan Lagares.

"The lefthanded-hitting Parra fared better against righties, making him a strong complement for Lagares.

Through he might be better suited to play a corner outfield spot, there is belief in the organization that he could handle centerfield duties.

While Parra's defense has taken a hit over the last two seasons, he's still only 28 years old, and has played over 1300 innings in center throughout his career.