5 under-the-radar position players the Mets should target before the trade deadline

NY Mets under the radar trade target: Brad Miller

Brad Miller is the ultimate utility player. Over the course of his career, he’s made over 100 starts at four different positions.

He’s not much of a hitter anymore, but he’s got some pop. He’s slashing .207/.258/.332/.589. He’s got seven homers and 29 RBI’s. He’s in the 82nd percentile in average exit velo and 54th percentile in barrel rate. Last year with the Phillies, he hit 20 homers and slugged .453.

His value comes from being able to play anywhere. He’s literally played every position on the field except pitcher and catcher. He’s mostly been playing third base and left field this year, but over the course of his career, he has the most experience at second base and shortstop. He’s basically average or slightly below at all of them.

On the Mets, he’d be coming off the bench in most of his appearances. He might pinch hit and stay in for defense, or just be brought in as a defensive replacement. He would also get the occasional start when guys need days off, or if there’s an injury he could step into a bigger role.

“Backyard Brad,” as he’s affectionately called by Trevor Plouffe, is on a two-year deal worth $10 million. They front-loaded it, so he’s making six this year and four next year. This is a great utility option for the Mets that can be plugged in pretty much anywhere, and be used as a pinch hitter too.