5 bold predictions for the 2022-2023 Mets offseason

3) NY Mets trade for Shane Bieber and extend him immediately

It’s going to be around mid-January or maybe even early February when the Mets trade for Shane Bieber. The Cleveland Guardians ace is one of the likeliest trade candidates out there this offseason. His growing salary makes him someone the Guardians will inevitable move.

What kind of a package would the Guardians want?

Using the Francisco Lindor trade as a gauge, the Mets would have to at least include a starting pitcher. Tylor Megill or David Peterson would work. On top of that, the Guardians would need some top prospects. It’s hard to see them having too much interest in Ronny Mauricio although if they are also interesting in moving on from Amed Rosario for someone cheaper, it could work. Imagine a middle infield of Mauricio and Andres Gimenez in Cleveland.

Mark Vientos would be a no-brainer to include in the deal. The Mets would probably also have to include one other prospect—maybe a pitcher such as Dominic Hamel.

With this prediction, the Mets add a third ace to the staff. They also sign Bieber to an extension immediately. Scherzer will be gone soon and Verlander won’t be around for much either. Bieber is a younger arm for the Mets to lock up. He also helps complete the most dangerous trifecta in the game.