Even after a busy offseason thus far, the Mets still have a lot of work to do.
They could use an additional arm or two in the bullpen, an outfielder and possibly a right-handed bat. Marwin Gonzalez could fit the latter role splendidly.
Gonzalez, 30 in March, is actually a switch hitter and can play all around the diamond. A player like that could be valuable to a team like the Mets, who need the depth.
His experience in center and right field are limited, but he can slot into left field when need be every several days to relieve Michael Conforto or Brandon Nimmo.
But perhaps another appealing key to Gonzalez’s game is that he can play first base.
Obviously, the Mets view Peter Alonso as their first baseman of the future, but it would make more sense if he began the year in the minors so the Mets can have longer team control over him.
Gonzalez has logged over 1,200 innings at first in his career and has a passable two defensive runs saved (DRS) and an 0.8 UZR at the position.
To begin the year, Gonzalez could take a majority of the reps at first and when Alonso is ready to come up, Gonzalez can play the outfield or wherever else need be across the diamond.
Yes, the Mets should almost definitely bring in another outfielder in addition to Gonzalez as well, but having a player like him benefits your team in more facets than one.
Gonzalez was worth 1.6 fWAR in 2018, but is just one year removed from a 4.0 fWAR campaign.
MLB Trade Rumors predicts that Gonzalez will land a four-year deal worth $36 million this winter, which is $9 million annually. Perhaps if the Mets can land him on a shorter deal, he can be had for a deal similar to that of recently signed Wilson Ramos.
Overall, Gonzalez would give the Mets a versatile player who won’t cost a fortune. What are your thoughts on pursuing Gonzalez?
