NY Mets top trade candidates at the start of the offseason

Oct 10, 2021

PORT ST. LUCIE, FL - MARCH 10: A detailed view of the Franklin batting gloves worn by Yoenis Cespedes #52 of the New York Mets prior to a spring training game against the St. Louis Cardinals at Tradition Field on March 10, 2016 in Port St. Lucie, Florida. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images) /

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Jul 23, 2021; New York City, New York, USA; New York Mets shortstop Luis Guillorme (13) hits a single during the second inning against the Toronto Blue Jays at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports /

5) NY Mets trade candidate Luis Guillorme

There is absolutely no need to trade Luis Guillorme. He is, in fact, quite possibly the best utility infielder you can ask for. His ability to move around the diamond and play the non-first base positions with great skill makes him a wonderful part of any roster.

So why put him on this list?

The Mets didn’t use Guillorme much at all in 2021 even when he was healthy. Starts in September were impossible for him to find. Is it that the team preferred their regulars or is it that they just don’t need to find out what Guillorme can offer them?

Guillorme has now had two good offensive seasons. Even though they’re about as light-hitting as you can imagine, he showcased unique abilities beyond just his glove. Guillorme doesn’t strike out often and he is brilliant at working a pitcher. He’s not someone we should ever expect to become a starter in Major League Baseball, but he could definitely have a larger role somewhere than he has with the Mets.

Any trade involving Guillorme might be to add someone of equal abilities who can play the outfield. I would still categorize a deal involving Guillorme as unlikely, but it’s logical. Perhaps a package deal would be the type of transaction that makes the most sense.