According to Marc Carig of The Athletic, the Mets and Houston Astros have been engaged in trade talks recently. The former has been doing “background work” on Houston’s minor league system, while the latter is interested in reliever Seth Lugo.
Carig adds that while there has been chatter, it’s unclear if there has been any traction in trade talks. In addition, Abbey Mastracco of The Record says that a source is unaware of any current talks, though the Mets do like Astros’ J.B. Bukauskas.
Lugo, 29, emerged as a dominant bullpen piece in 2018, logging a 2.66 ERA and 2.1 bWAR across 54 games (101.1 IP).
The righty, who would be entering his fourth year as a major leaguer, has been talked about this offseason as a valuable bullpen piece, but as a pitcher who could potentially start as well.
As of right now, it wouldn’t make sense for New York to trade one of their most consistent relievers, especially when one of their focal points this offseason has been improving the bullpen.
Regardless, we will keep you up to date if any more news pours in.
