Mets Trade Rumors: Astros showing interest in pitcher Seth Lugo

Recent New York Mets trade rumors say the Houston Astros have reportedly discussed the possibility of a deal involving Seth Lugo.

Say it ain’t so! He should not go. Turn the lights off on these trade rumors and carry me home. Just when we think the New York Mets bullpen may look pretty good in 2019, we hear this. According to recent Mets trade rumors from Marc Carig of The Athletic, the Houston Astros have their eye on Seth Lugo.

Nearly everyone not named Jacob deGrom has been mentioned at some point this winter in Mets trade rumors. Lugo is the latest to join the list. The 2017 champions could use another starter. Adding Lugo could give them that while also allowing a bit of flexibility in moving him back to the bullpen where he had his most success in 2018.

From a Mets vantage point, it’s somewhat surprising to learn. Lugo was supposed to be key in their bullpen next year. With the return of Jeurys Familia and addition of Edwin Diaz, he would help shape an improved relief corps in the coming year.

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What’s more, Lugo would give the Mets starting pitching depth. Behind the expected five starters, they don’t have too many reliable names under control. Although Lugo has pitched better in relief, he can still perform well in a starter’s role.

As Carig notes further, the Mets are looking at the Astros’ minor league system for a potential match. I’m surprised to see this. In any previous rumor, the thinking has been that they want MLB talent.

There isn’t much I would move Lugo for. Perhaps a lefty of equal or greater value would make sense. Right now, it’s Daniel Zamora’s time to shine.

I’m doubtful the Mets could get an everyday player for someone with a limited track-record like Lugo. For as vital as he is to their success, he is a relief pitcher with two good seasons under his belt.

Lugo is pitching through a partially torn UCL which may eventually catch up to him. Knowing this, trading him now rather than later could make sense. Still, it’s a hard sell when you’re coming off a year where the bullpen was at its worst.

I do not recall seeing any other Mets trade rumors involving Lugo this offseason. During the regular season, he did come up a few times in July. They only ever did a light sell-off, moving upcoming free agents and not affordable guys under team control.

If Brodie Van Wagenen truly is unwilling to create a hole to fill another, I don’t foresee a trade with the Astros going down. The only thing which may change this is if they are able to sign another free agent or add someone else via a separate trade.

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Call me crazy, but I don’t trust too many men in this bullpen. Lugo is one I do.