Even with all the depth additions this offseason seemingly making him expendable, New York Mets fans should expect to see third baseman Todd Frazier don the orange-and-blue next season.
Mets GM Brodie Van Wagenen indicated at Jed Lowrie’s introductory press conference on Wednesday afternoon that despite the addition of the veteran infielder, he fully expects Frazier to be a starter at first or third next season.
“We made this signing with the intention Todd would be on our roster. He’s a big part of who we want to be this year,” Van Wagenen told reporters after the Lowrie signing.
I do understand the concept of Mets fans looking to move the corner infielder to clear up some salary, in hopes of spending that money to fill other holes on the roster. However, at 33-years-old and coming off a career-worst, injury-plagued season, the Mets may not find a team willing to eat all of the $9 million remaining on Frazier’s contract.
Instead, the Mets should hold onto Frazier for the remainder of his deal. His presence on the roster may be of more value to the Mets than if they were to move him. Frazier provides this team with even more depth and opens up plenty of different scenarios for Mickey Callaway.
Frazier has the ability to play an average first and third base. Though he has shown signs of decline offensively, he has not lost a step in the field. Even in a down year last season he had a strong defensive year, posting a 1.9 WAR, 2.4 UZR, and 2 defensive runs saved.
Lowrie figures to be the Opening Day and everyday third baseman, but with his versatility around the infield, Frazier could see some time there. Frazier also gives the Mets a nice insurance policy for power hitting first base prospect Peter Alonso.
With Frazier as the starting first baseman, the Mets can afford to keep Alonso in the minors for the time being. Also, if Alonso struggles offensively or defensively upon receiving the call to the big leagues, Frazier is a solid replacement and mentor for the rookie.
Offensively, Frazier is still a solid bottom of the order bat. He brings some pop and advanced plate discipline. Though he has shown some signs of decline since then, Frazier did hit also 40 home runs and drove in 98 RBI with the White Sox in 2016.
Also, prior to his injuries last season, Frazier was hitting a solid .256/.395/.444 with 20 walks and a .839 OPS in 26 games during April and May. He also had a strong month of August, hitting .255/.319/.480 with five home runs and 20 RBI over 28 games.
Instead of just simply dumping him, the Mets should keep Frazier and his veteran presence around, and hope he can have a bounce-back season in his walk year.
