New York has been linked to Ben Zobrist over the last few days but the organization might not have an opportunity to add the utility infielder to its roster. Zobrist is expected to be dealt by the Athletics, but according to Mike Puma of The New York Post, adding Zobrist would be a "long shot" for the Mets.
Puma adds a deal is not imminent, however in a market that has been slow to develop, that can change quickly. There are very few obvious hitters available but Zobrist might be one. Several contending clubs are seeking productive middle of the order bats and Zobrist has proven to be just that over the last few seasons.
Zobrist, 34, has posted a .259/.348/.421 batting line to complement five home runs and 32 RBIs through 62 contests with Oakland this season. He batted .272/.354/.395 last season with Tampa Bay and his success resulted in a 5.6 WAR.
FOX Sports' Ken Rosenthal noted Tuesday there are not ongoing discussions between the Athletics and Mets with regard to Zobrist.
Since Zobrist does not have a notably high salary and he gets on base consistently, a deal with the Mets could make sense. Zobrist is also capable of playing second and third base and the corner outfield spots and would be a versatile piece for the Mets, who publicly would like to add a bat to their lineup before the end of the month.
Although the Mets might consider other infield options, the organization likely has the depth necessary to get a deal done. At 49-46, New York feels confident it can make a playoff run since the Nationals have yet to run away with the National League East. In order to upgrade, the Mets could be forced to part with Amed Rosario or Michael Conforto. But Andy Martino of The New York Daily News reported the Mets would be open do dealing top prospects.
The Nationals, Pirates, and Yankees have all been linked to Zobrist over the last few weeks. Even though a deal is not close to getting done, the Mets could still have an opportunity to add the veteran utilityman before the end of next week.