I thought it was interesting listening to Jim Duquette on SNY discussing which Mets pitchers were now considered to be untouchable and which ones the Mets would most likely move this offseason to acquire a big bat. Obviously nobody is untouchable in theory, but here is how he ranked them, however the comments are my own.
Untouchable
Matt Harvey – Absolutely agreed. I’m not big on having untouchables, especially when you’ve had six consecutive losing seasons, but Harvey is the one you build around.
Zack Wheeler – Not sure I’d put Wheeler in the same category as Harvey right now. He certainly had himself a solid year in his first full season, but if he were the centerpiece in a deal to get someone like Jose Bautista, I’d probably do it.
Jacob deGrom – Between Wheeler and deGrom, I’d rather hang onto the 2014 Rookie of the Year. At times, deGrom looked every bit as dominant as Harvey, and he pitches with all the confidence of a 10-year veteran.
In Right Deal
Jon Niese – I think Sandy will find that there will be lots of demand for Niese. Realistically, he’ll net us far more in trade value than Colon will, and that could be a big factor in fixing the black hole in left or right field.
Dillon Gee – With all the hard throwers we have, Gee can confound teams with his crafty offerings. That said, if the price is right…
Rafael Montero – Is it me or has everyone been trying to trade this kid from the moment he started pitching at Single-A St. Lucie. He’s not an untouchable, but he deserves more respect.
Noah Syndergaard – The emergence of deGrom has taken Syndergaard out of the untouchable category. His inconsistency didn’t help matters. So if he’s integral to getting something done… Buh bye…
Being Shopped
Bartolo Colon – I wouldn’t be surprised if Colon is still a Met come opening day. Alderson said he wasn’t going to give him away at the trade deadline, and I’m sure that still holds true. He’s being shopped, sure… But who’s buying?
