The Mets currently have just four outfielders on their 40-man roster, two of which are going to be returning from injury.
Michael Conforto‘s status among them is perhaps the most uncertain. He is set to begin swinging in January and could be ready for Spring Training. However, with his injury as fluky as it was, it’s unclear if that will be the case. Even if he does return in time for the beginning of the season, can he return to the player he was prior to his injury this past season?
Then there’s Yoenis Cespedes. The 32-year-old would have had a strong season in line with his previous years as a Met, but was hampered by numerous hamstring and leg problems, cutting his season to just 81 games.
Beyond that, it’s just Juan Lagares and Brandon Nimmo, the former of which has spent his fair share of time on the disabled list in his time with the Mets.
It wasn’t long ago New York had a glut of outfielders, but after trading away Jay Bruce and Curtis Granderson, the depth is a lot slimmer than it once was.
Reinforcements from the minors won’t be coming anytime soon as well, at least not any that will make an impact to begin the season.
With that being said, it is imperative the Mets add an outfielder this offseason. Even if everything goes right and each current outfielder stays healthy, it’s risky to go into a season with just four outfielders to withstand an entire season.
Lorenzo Cain‘s name has been floated around as a potential target for the Mets early on this offseason, but whether New York wants to invest a substantial amount of their spending money into one player is unclear.
The Mets will also certainly add an infielder, whether that be a third baseman or second baseman, but outfield is just as, if not more important.
A name that New York should seriously consider is bringing back Jay Bruce. While it’s been rumored he’d prefer to play on the West Coast or in Texas where he is from, he could fill a couple of needs, including taking reps at first base occasionally as well.
Plus, they already know what they have with him. He has proven he can perform in New York while providing a stable, veteran locker room presence. He’s also fantastic with the media and can help mentor the younger players such as Amed Rosario and Dominic Smith.
The team also needs a power bat yet again, and he has proven to be good for 30+ home runs.
Yes, the Mets need to add a couple pitchers to bolster and round out the staff as well as getting a reliable infielder, but outfield should not be a position the team neglects.
