3 Reds players the Mets should already be scouting for a trade

NY Mets Trade Target: Tyler Naquin

While some believe that Mike Moustakas could be a trade candidate for the Mets, it might be more likely that they look into acquiring Tyler Naquin. Naquin is in his walk-year this season, and like nearly every other veteran on the Reds, will likely find himself on the trade block.

While Moustakas is the bigger name, Naquin has actually been much more productive for the Reds, since the two have joined the team, and Naquin is making less money than Moustakas. Last season for the Reds, Naquin hit .270 with career highs in hits, doubles, RBI, and home runs. According to Baseball Reference, he hit 19 home runs and drove in 70 runs last season in his first season with the Reds.

As a 31-year old rental, who has never had more than 411 at-bats in a season, Naquin should not cost a ton to acquire and could be a piece that the Mets use in the outfield when their starters need a day off and can get some bats at designated hitter as well. Naquin is a left-handed bat with some pop and could be a nice compliment to J.D. Davis at designated hitter, if the team packages Dominic Smith in a separate trade to acquire pitching help.

The Mets should not be willing to part with any of their top prospects in a trade with Naquin, but they also shouldn't have to in order to get a trade done for him. If they can give the reds a lower level prospect, they might be able to get a deal done. Or maybe they go for a package involving Naquin and one of the two starters, in exchange for Smith and some prospects.

There are many possibilities the Mets can address in the trade market during this season, but one thing is for sure, they must reach out to the Reds, due to the wide array of players they could be interested in.