Mets: Which top free agent did they miss out on most this winter?

George Springer, J.T. Realmuto, and even Trevor Bauer have all signed new deals this winter. None were with the New York Mets. Heading into the offseason, it felt as if the Mets would snag at least one of these star free agents. Instead, they’re all heading somewhere else for the 2021 season.

Each of the three was a potential fit for the Mets. Center field, catcher, and starting pitching all needed to be addressed. The Mets have made vast improvements by choosing other players to fulfill their needs. However, there’s still some sense around the fans that they should have at least come away with one of these guys.

With all now signed, we can look back at which one the Mets needed most.

Did the Mets need George Springer most?

Springer ended up with the Toronto Blue Jays on a six-year deal worth $150 million. It’s the most of any of these three likely because the market warranted it.

As an outfielder, just about every team interested in spending money could find a role for Springer. Even if it meant moving him to a corner spot already, most rosters could find a place to give Springer his at-bats.

The Mets have yet to upgrade in center field. Instead, they look prepared to embark on another year with Brandon Nimmo playing subpar defense. Springer would have upgraded them in every way at the position and allow Nimmo to slide into left field. But then there’s also the question of what to do with Dominic Smith if the DH does indeed go away for the National League in 2021.

There’s little question in my mind that losing Springer stung and may continue to do so unless the team finds a solution.