Slumping former NY Mets player is a candidate to be replaced by another familiar name

As the Major League Baseball trade deadline approaches, the Los Angeles Dodgers, a team always looking to bolster its roster for a deep postseason run, are reportedly exploring options to upgrade their outfield. While their primary focus remains on acquiring a high-leverage relief pitcher, recent reports indicate a keen interest in a former New York Mets outfielder.

Minnesota Twins outfielder Harrison Bader, a familiar face to National League East fans from his time with the New York Mets, has emerged as a potential target. His strong overall contributions this season have caught the attention of the Dodgers' front office, who are seemingly willing to look past their stated preference for a left-handed hitting outfielder to secure his services.

Harrison Bader's arrival would cost another former Met his job

Should the Dodgers successfully acquire Bader, the ripple effect would likely impact another former New York Met, Michael Conforto. Conforto has been battling season-long struggles at the plate. Despite the team's public support and belief in his ability to improve, Bader's defensive prowess could significantly reduce Conforto's playing time or even cost him his roster spot, especially considering the Dodgers' collective outfield defense is one of the worst seven in MLB in terms of Outs Above Average.

The Dodgers' interest in Bader is primarily driven by his elite defensive skills. Known for his Gold Glove-caliber play, Bader can capably cover all three outfield positions, though he has primarily featured in left field for the Twins this season.

His addition would provide an immediate defensive upgrade, potentially allowing current Dodgers center fielder Andy Pages to shift to a corner outfield spot. This defensive versatility and reliability are highly valued by a team aiming for championship contention, especially considering the overall performance of the Dodgers' outfield, which, despite a combined wRC+ of around 100 (15th in the majors) and 4.0 fWAR (17th in the majors), has been a weak spot.

Conforto, a left-handed bat, would find himself directly competing with Bader, a right-handed hitter, for playing time. However, Conforto's poor offensive production this season, characterized by a 79 wRC+, puts him at a distinct disadvantage. While the Dodgers have seen their key contributors like Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman struggle to find consistency at the plate, the acquisition of a more reliable bat and elite defender like Bader would be a clear signal that the team is prioritizing performance over loyalty.

Conforto's relegation to the bench, or even a potential roster move, would highlight the demanding nature of a championship-caliber team and the continuous need for every player to contribute at a high level. Bader's strong offensive season, with a .255/.336/.431 slash line (118 wRC+), further solidifies the argument for his inclusion over a struggling Conforto.