New York Mets General Manager, Sandy Alderson, met with reporters at Citi Field on Thursday to discuss the current state of the team. One of the key items Alderson touched on was the fact that he does not foresee the team adding a position player prior to the start of spring training unless it is on a minor league deal, as reported by Adam Rubin of ESPN.
With the team currently focused on solidifying their bullpen and trading Jay Bruce, Alderson seems to be content with the rest of his group heading into the 2017 season. This seems to all but close the door on another reunion with super utility man, Kelly Johnson.
It has been widely reported that the Atlanta Braves are interested in Johnson yet again, setting up the possible third trade in as many seasons between the two teams at the trading deadline. At this point, seeing as how valuable he has been to the Metropolitans, is it worth bringing him back?
Johnson has been a great utility player for the Mets, covering multiple positions while providing a steady and clutch bat. In 2016, while appearing in 82 games for the boys from Queens, Johnson worked to a .268/.328/.459 battling line to go with nine homers and 24 RBI in 183 plate appearances.
Although playing time may be a bit murkier for Kelly entering 2017, it’s still worth a look to sign him to a deal, especially if he can be had on the cheap. Injuries are bound to happen in the course of a season and they don’t get much better than KJ when it comes to having a formidable backup when undesirable situations arise.
At the very least it is worth it for Alderson to explore what exactly Johnson may be looking for to come back to New York. Every winning team needs a player of Johnson’s caliber to come off the bench when needed in a big situation. What better player to sign other than one who has already proven his worth in the big city?
