Baseball analyst and former GM Jim Duquette came up with three potential scenarios in trying to construct the perfect Mets and Cubs trade in an article for MLB.com.
He points out that Cubs general manager Jed Hoyer recently acknowledged that the two sides have had ongoing dialogue to see if there is a good fit.
The Cubs of course are loaded with talented middle infielders, while the Mets are stocked with elite young pitchers. Each team possesses what the other team craves.
Here are his three trade proposals, and I included some of Jim’s partial comments. Read his article for full and extensive commentary for each trade.
The Safe Trade: SS Javier Baez for LHP Steven Matz
We have not seen the best of Baez at the Major League level, especially last season, when he struck out at an alarming rate of 41.5 percent. But there is no denying his power potential, athleticism and overall talent in the middle of the diamond. Unlike Wilmer Flores, Baez is a true shortstop and would provide at least as much power and much better defense with more upside.
The Fair Trade: Starlin Castro or Addison Russell for RHPs Noah Syndergaard and Rafael Montero
This deal would help both teams right now. Although error-prone, Castro would be a defensive upgrade and give the Mets another high-average hitter. He’s due $37 million from 2016-19, which is extremely reasonable for a player of his caliber. Russell is younger and has more upside, but he is a bit more of a wild card.
The Dream Trade: Kris Bryant for Matt Harvey
In reality, this one would not likely be done by either side as both Bryant and Harvey have become, to some degree, the faces of their respective franchises. But there’s no denying that both are stars — marketable players to build around. They also know how to handle the attention and the spotlight.
Duquette’s Disclaimer: I recognize this will never happen, but it’s fun to think about. Fact is, when both sides are equally uncomfortable in making a trade of this nature, it usually means it’s a fair one.
I like Jim Duquette and find him to be an excellent and insightful baseball analyst. Those are definitely three trades, each interesting in their own way, that will make for some fun and interesting dialog.
