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NY Mets: Ranking the top 10 trade targets this offseason
8) Whit Merrifield
Sticking with versatile infielders who also play the outfield, the Mets have long been linked to Whit since 2020. The Royals second baseman was an all-star in both 2019 and 2021, while playing all three outfield positions. The Mets benefited greatly last year from being able to move different pieces around the field and adding Merrifield would certainly contribute to that.
Merrifield, who is under contract through 2023, albeit with a club option for that year, racked up 42 doubles this past season while also adding 40 stolen bases; that kind of speed is something the Mets have sorely missed over the past few seasons.
Whit Merrifield hit a grand slam… which gives me the chance to remind you he is 37/39 on SB attempts ? pic.twitter.com/K9J3NOMnIu
— Fuzzy (@fuzzyfromyt) August 25, 2021
Add in the fact that he’s a right handed bat, which could help bring much needed balance to the lineup, and you’re looking at what could be a great add this offseason. Merrifield would bring defensive versatility, speed and a right-handed presence in the lineup, an almost ideal candidate for the team this winter.
While he is 32 years old, his team-friendly contract (Merrifield is set to make just around $10M over the next two seasons combined) could make the asking price a bit higher than normal, but for a Royals team that’s in a rebuild and looking to save money where they can, the Mets could make sense to partner with this winter.