Last night, I was pondering more possible deals the Mets could explore this offseason. One that I considered a strong match was Lucas Duda for Matt Joyce.
I’ve been a big admirer of Joyce for a while now. I feel that his left-handed power potential is something the Mets could sorely use. He also plays the outfield and would fill a void they covet. The Rays could be open to moving him due to this winter being his first arbitration eligible offseason. If they are reluctant to pay the raise, Duda could be a fine return in trade.
The Rays’ current first baseman, Carlos Pena, will be become a free agent at seasons end and Duda could fill the void at 1B for them, while also getting time in at DH. Duda is not eligible for arbitration until after the 2013 season.
Their 2012 numbers are not that dissimilar:
» Lucas Duda (26) – .243 BA, .331 OBP, .728 OPS, 14 HR, 15 2B, 47 BB, 111 K, 423 PA.
» Matt Joyce (28) – .249 BA, .350 OBP, .784 OPS, 15 HR, 17 2B, 52 BB, 95 K, 429 PA.
I’m not necessarily saying this will be a straight up deal. The Mets could end up having to throw in an extra piece Tampa Bay’s way.
The Rays continuously search for spare bullpen pieces to help them compete in the tough AL East. I’m sure names like Parnell, Carson, E. Ramirez could entice them. The Rays do have a deep farm system and will probably prefer a major league ready talent. I do wonder however, if Sandy Alderson could be savvy enough to get them to accept a lower-tier RP prospect instead.
This hypothetical trade could end up looking like this:
Mets get Matt Joyce
Rays get Lucas Duda & Robert Carson
