The New York Mets are trying to stay very active during the MLB offseason and are searching for any move that might better the team while staying in the budget. Team officially discussed multiple moves during the winter meetings, but never committed to anything. Ike Davis was thought to be on the trading block with multiple teams interested, but now the Mets are holding onto him while pursing free agents.
According to Adam Rubin of ESPN, David will be in a Mets uniform come spring training. The first baseman was shopped all winter with teams ranging from the Pittsburgh Pirates to the Milwaukee Brewers showing interest. The 27-year-old struggled last season, but hit 32 homeruns in 2012. He was demoted to Triple-A for 10 games during the summer as Lucas Duda emerged as the better player.
The Mets intend to keep Davis, but according to Rubin the team will still listen to offers that come in. In fact, the tables have turned even more as Duda could now be the player traded. The Baltimore Sun reports that the Mets have tossed around a trade package that could include Daniel Murphy and Dude in return for top pitching prospect Eduardo Rodriguez. An agreement has not been reached, but expected the Mets to move one if not both players.
Duda emerged as a favorable star last year. He hit .223 and 15 home runs while playing both first base and outfield at times. His versatility and productive bat make him favorable in certain trade packages. The team currently has $45 million committed in salary which is nowhere close to their $94 million Opening Day salary of last season. They are still focused on trades, not for money saving, but for an optimal roster to compete.
Rubin also highlights another foreseeable move for the Mets including Stephen Drew. The team would like to upgrade from shortstop Ruben Tejada and have made Drew their top target. The 30-year-old is targeting a deal worth more than three years, something New York is not keen on. The free agent has struggled in free agency since he also has a 2014 draft pick attached to his name. The Boston Red Sox will likely bring him back if no one signs him to a favorable offer.
