While Addison Reed is likely to be on the move at the trade deadline, the Mets lefty-specialist, Jerry Blevins, may stand pat.
According to Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports, Blevins is perhaps the “least likely” of the Mets veterans to be traded at this year’s deadline.
Blevins, 33, has pitched to a 4-0 record this season, with a 2.13 ERA and 2.66 FIP in 38 games pitched. The lefty has also held left-handed hitters to a .113 batting average (7-for-62) in 2017 thus far.
Rosenthal says that with the Mets seeking to contend in 2018, Blevins provides a reliable bullpen option as a lefty reliever.
“This team still has the ability to field an excellent rotation,” Rosenthal said. “The free agent market will offer numerous alternatives at the positions they need to fill: First base, second base, bullpen, outfield.”
Blevins $7 million club option for 2018 and the fact that the Mets are going to need a left-handed reliever are reason to believe they could keep the veteran.
While $7 million is a hefty payday for a lefty specialist, it’s no secret that Blevins has been one of the few constant’s in the Mets bullpen this season.
Rosenthal’s logic is sound, but if the Mets get an offer for Blevins that’s too good to pass up, there’s no doubt he could be traded.
With quality left-handed relievers always a hot commodity, a contender may overpay for Blevins’ services, but it will come down to the wire.
Either way, if the Mets aren’t blown away with an offer, I have no qualms with Blevins returning for 2018 with his track record as a Met since he joined the team in 2015.
