NY Mets rumors: MLB Insider reports a lineup upgrade could be on the way

It's no secret that the New York Mets will be buyers at the upcoming trade deadline. With the team currently 45-30 and fighting with the Phillies for the NL East crown, this team has the potential to make a deep run in the postseason. However, in order to do that, they're going to have to make upgrades at certain positions. Bring in players to answer the looming question marks on the roster.

While many have assumed the Mets would be primarily focused on pitching, MLB Insiders Ken Rosenthal and Will Sammon of The Athletic reported another position the Mets are looking for. In their recent article, the two are reporting that the Mets are monitoring the center field market. But why do the Mets feel they need to bring in a new centerfielder?

Why the Mets are seeking help in centerfield

Coming into this season, the Mets plan to use a platoon in centerfield. The hope was that Tyrone Taylor and Jose Siri would split time in centerfield. This was done as a way to prioritize defense, without them being a blackhole in the lineup. However, with Siri being out with a broken left tibia and not healing as fast as previously expected, it seems like the Mets will have to move on from that idea.

While Taylor has dazzled with his defense, he leaves a lot to be desired at the plate. He's currently slashing .237/.300/.348 with two home runs, 15 RBIs, an 87 OPS+, and a wRC+ of 85. The Mets have tried to replace Siri with Jeff McNeil, as a way to get both him and all the young infielders they have in the lineup. However, McNeil has not played center field before this season, so there is always the concern that his defense will cost you.

The Mets could also benefit from having another impact bat in the lineup. While the top of the order can produce, and has this season. But once you get past the fifth spot, there are a lot of questions. There is no player you trust to come through and get the big hit. Their numbers with runners in scoring position support this, as they are batting .216 in those spots. Only the White Sox have a worse average with RISP.

If the Mets want to make another deep playoff run, they have to hit better in those spots. While the pitching has carried the team so far, they can not continue to rely on that. With the pitching staff's massive overachievement and signs of regression already starting to show, the lineup needs to start living up to expectations. Bringing in an impact centerfielder like a Cedric Mullins or a Luis Robert Jr. might be the jump start this team needs.

Although pitching is going to be the primary focus for David Stearns and company at this year's trade deadline, don't be surprised if they get a center fielder as well. It could be the move that brings the team back to the promised land.