Another Phillies-Twins trade clears the path for the NY Mets to get desired target

The Philadelphia Phillies and Minnesota Twins made such a strong connection with Wednesday’s Jhoan Duran trade that they decided to reconnect for a second date. This time, it’s Harrison Bader joining Philadelphia in the midst of one of his more productive offensive seasons. A solid backup plan for the New York Mets in case they weren’t able to nab Luis Robert Jr. is off the board. However, with the Phillies finding their new center fielder, it opens up a clearer path for the Chicago White Sox to deal their desirable trade target to New York.

The Mets have been a favorite to land Robert for a few days. One less team competing for him sure seems to narrow it down further.

The Mets and Phillies continue to trade blows at the deadline, this time with Philadelphia striking first

Known suitors of Robert have included the Mets, Phillies, and San Diego Padres who’ve been busy today with other moves. The Padres, with some pieces to sell while overhauling the roster, are the most dangerous club in baseball right now for any contender. They don’t necessarily need a center fielder, but a young outfielder wouldn’t hurt them with a large vacancy in left field.

If all the Mets come away with today is the addition of Robert, the trade deadline can be considered a success. They have some room for creativity. Playing by the book, and simply upgrading their weakest offensive position, seems to be the best approach.

Fallback options now include overlooking center field entirely and sticking with a combination of Jeff McNeil and Tyrone Taylor or adding Cedric Mullins of the Baltimore Orioles. Bader would have been a good match for the Mets if not for the way things ended last year. As Mets fans learned firsthand, there appeared to be an expiration date on him in the second half.

The Mets have a few hours left to give the White Sox their best offer for Robert. With a team option on him for next season, and current non-contenders possibly seeking him out in the offseason, Chicago will need to receive something they feel is worth dealing away a rising star who, for several years now, hasn’t shined so bright.