NY Mets: How the lineup would thrive with universal DH

Mets iteration 3: Buy an outfielder

It would likely be required for the Mets to buy an outfielder if the Mets give Dom Smith or Pete Alonso the DH role, but going big could really work out for them.

Something else to think about is that Jonathan Villar heads to free agency this offseason, while Kevin Pillar has the option to stay for an added year, and the Mets might also want to think about adding depth pieces.

2022 free agent options include Corey Dickerson, Eddie Rosario, and Avisail Garcia. The Mets could technically decide to bring Conforto back next year in the hope that he flourishes, but not doing well in a contract year doesn’t usually bode well for players. He’ll be signed in free agency by someone, but the Mets will question that road.

Another option to consider is Mets #6 prospect Khalil Lee. He made his major league debut filling in back in May against the Braves, going 0-for-1 appearing as a pinch runner for Kevin Pillar. In 18 at-bats, he has zero walks and 13 strikeouts, but delivered a pinch-hit RBI double off of Miami’s Adam Cimber to give the Mets a 6-5 win in extra innings.

The Mets acquired Lee from Kansas City in a three-team trade back in February, but has been solid for Syracuse this year and could make big strides near the end of the season. Lee is also on the Mets’ 40-man so he’ll be at Spring Training next year.

Even if the Mets theoretically added Lee to the MLB roster next year, they might want to consider adding another outfielder.