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New York Mets: Top 10 outfielders to consider adding this winter

By Allen Settle

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - SEPTEMBER 09: Jackie Bradley Jr. #19 of the Boston Red Sox catches a fly ball hit by Edwin Encarnacion #30 of the New York Yankees during the seventh inning of the game between the Boston Red Sox and the New York Yankees at Fenway Park on September 09, 2019 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - SEPTEMBER 09: Jackie Bradley Jr. #19 of the Boston Red Sox catches a fly ball hit by Edwin Encarnacion #30 of the New York Yankees during the seventh inning of the game between the Boston Red Sox and the New York Yankees at Fenway Park on September 09, 2019 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) /
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WASHINGTON, DC – OCTOBER 15: Harrison Bader #48 of the St. Louis Cardinals looks on prior to playing against the Washington Nationals in Game Four of the National League Championship Series at Nationals Park on October 15, 2019 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Will Newton/Getty Images) /

The One-Dimensional Trade Candidates

8. Harrison Bader, Trade

Harrison Bader is the first of a group of players that fit only one of the Mets’ needs. After starting 74 games at CF in 2018, Bader took command of the role by making all 122 of his starts at the position. During his short career, he has recorded a stellar .984 fielding percentage as a centerfielder. He is also only 25 years old.

However, Bader has some of the same concerns that plagued Luan Lagares during his run in New York. His bat is relatively quiet for an everyday player. In 406 plate appearances, Bader posted a career-low .205 average last season. The Mets would have to have reason to believe that Bader would be able to improve as a hitter in order to make this trade.

7. Delino DeShields Jr., Trade

Delino DeShields Jr. is essentially a slightly different version of Bader. The 27-year-old started 112 games for the Rangers and finished the season with a .981 fielding percentage. He also posted a healthy .249 average with 24 stolen bases last season. In fact, he has finished four of his five professional seasons with 20+ steals.

6. Wil Myers, Trade

Wil Myers is an interesting case study. The former Rookie of the Year and All-Star was once considered to be a “can’t miss prospect.” However, after several pedestrian seasons, trade speculation has surrounded the outfielder.

A prolonged slump caused Myers batting average drop to .239 last season. However, he still hit 18 homers and stole 16 bases.

However, Myers defensive potential feels eerily similar to Conforto and Nimmo. While he is capable of playing CF at the MLB level (66 starts is 2019), he is a natural corner outfielder. His inconsistent bat and lack of experience as an everyday CF make him a risky, but intriguing option.

5. Jackie Bradley Jr., Trade

Jackie Bradley Jr. is an upgraded version of Bader and DeShields. He has played nearly his entire career in center field. He is also the first player on this list to win a Gold Glove award at the position. The 29 year old would immediately make the Mets a vastly better defensive team.

However, the fact that he is reported available is based on his liability as a hitter. While the “juiced-ball” season helped him blast 21 homer runs last season, he finished the year with a meager .225 average.

JBJ is the Mets’ best option if they decide against spending serious money or assets to address their need at CF.

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