The latest on the Mets shortstop search

Sandy Alderson intimated during a conference call on Tuesday that with Michael Cuddyer under contract, the Mets will now turn their attention to finding an upgrade at shortstop.

With that in mind, let’s take a look at where things stand with some potential trade targets.

Alexei Ramirez, Chicago White Sox:

The Mets have reached out to the White Sox about acquiring Ramirez, but Marc Carig of Newsday says that Ramirez is not at the top of New York’s list. Carig cites Ramirez’ age (33), money owed ($10 million in 2015), his declining defense, and his home/road splits as reasons the Mets may be wary.

The White Sox are in need of pitching, and the Mets could probably nab Ramirez for Rafael Montero or Dillon Gee + a bit more if they so choose.

Didi Gregorius & Chris Owings, Arizona Diamondbacks:

The Diamondbacks are getting tons of calls about the availability of Didi Gregorius, but they may be willing to move shortstop Chris Owings instead.

As far as a deal with the Mets is concerned, Arizona GM Dave Stewart made it clear that he is not interested in acquiring Jon Niese, Dillon Gee, or Bartolo Colon in exchange for one of his shortstops. Rather, he is looking for “young, controllable” starting pitching.

For Gregorius, the Mets would likely be willing to deal Rafael Montero. Perhaps Steven Matz would be on the table if Owings was made available. However, it’s close to impossible to see the Mets dealing Noah Syndergaard for one of Gregorius or Owings.

Brad Miller, Seattle Mariners:

Sources are telling Adam Rubin of ESPN New York that the Mets and Mariners match up well for a potential trade.

The two clubs discussed Nick Franklin last spring, but nothing came of it. Franklin was ultimately shipped to Tampa Bay as part of a three-team deal that brought David Price to Detroit.

Now, the Mariner who the Mets would be interested in is Brad Miller.

Miller, 25, had a solid debut with the Mariners in 2013. He struggled a bit last season, hitting .221/.288/.365.

Although he struggled reaching base in 2014, Miller was a plus defender who bopped 10 home runs in 411 plate appearances.

Miller is an interesting name, and one who could emerge as the best bet for the Mets if he’s made available.