New York Mets Offseason Free Agent Target: Marwin Gonzalez

Marwin Gonzalez is a guy the New York Mets have to think about adding this winter. Let’s look at what he can bring to New York.

One thing missing from the New York Mets is a guy who contributed to a championship team. If they go out this winter and add Marwin Gonzalez, the void will be filled.

Gonzalez is a free agent this winter and one many teams will look at. His versatility on the field and production at the plate makes him a valuable resource. For a team like the Mets with several holes to fill, he’s an easy selection to target in free agency.

For the past few seasons, Gonzalez has played all over the field for the Houston Astros. His best year came in 2017 when he .303/.377/.530 with 23 home runs and 90 RBI. Not nearly as strong in 2018, he still put up credible offensive numbers. As a member of the Mets, he would have ranked near the top in several statistics.

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I could see Gonzalez playing a lot of left field in Flushing and even some third base. He’s the kind of guy who would start every game against a left-handed pitcher, often giving a day off to one of the lefties whenever he does.

Gonzalez isn’t the perfect fit for the Mets, however, if they were to sign him early and miss out on another target, I think they could survive a whole lot better. He’s someone to snatch up early on in free agency. Multiple teams will offer him a chance to start 162 games a year, which I’m not so sure the Mets can do once Yoenis Cespedes returns; if he returns at all.

Of course, that’s a weak excuse for not going after one of the better right-handed hitters without a home in 2019. We’ll worry about his playing time when Cespedes finally does get back on the field. The best problem they could hope for is to employ too many good players.

One issue I do have with adding Gonzalez is that there’s still a hole in center field. I have no doubt he could play the position, just not too well. Much like Michael Conforto and Brandon Nimmo, he’s better suited in the corners. For the sake of adding offense, I’m willing to move one of them into center field to get Gonzalez’s stick in the lineup.

The Mets may need to continue sacrificing some defense in favor of offense. This is what happens when you go after a player like Gonzalez. He won’t win you a Gold Glove. He will give you options and that’s something this team needs more of next year.

Next. Closer options for the 2019 Mets

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