As expected, the New York Mets reached out to Alan Nero, the agent for free agent Ben Zobrist, according to a report by Dan Martin of the New York Post.
Martin says the Mets figure to make a strong push for Zobrist, whose versatility would allow them to use him at second base and in the outfield.
Zobrist, who turns 35 in May, could get as much as a four-year deal worth over $60 million.
I can’t tell what the end game is here. Are the Mets just going through the motions or would they really consider signing Zobrist through his age 38 season?
I’m sure Zobrist would give the team a significant bat and the versatility they need, as well as veteran presence, for the 2016 season. But at some point Zobrist is going to hit his decline.
I like Zobrist, I truly do… My fear however, is that this isn’t just a player on the wrong side of 30, Zobrist will be on the wrong side of 35 and making more than any Met player not named David Wright.
Last offseason we took a shot on Cuddyer in his age 35 season and gave him a two-year deal. That didn’t work out so well and in 2016 he’ll be a $12.5 million dollar paper weight.
November 12
The Mets plan to soon meet with the agents for free agent Ben Zobrist according to Mike Puma of the New York Post.
One of the most versatile and productive players in this Winter’s free agent market, Zobrist clearly profiles as someone who would fit the needs of the Mets.
Zobrist, 34, can proficiently play second and shortstop as well as both corner outfield positions, and would give Terry Collins the flexibility to construct his lineup in a variety of ways.
Last season in 126 games with the Athletics and Royals, Zobrist hit .276/.359/.450 with 13 home runs, 36 doubles and 56 RBIs. He had a strong postseason, batting .303 with two home runs and six RBIs.
Zobrist is in high demand and will command a 3-4 year deal worth about $13-15 million annually. The Washington Nationals, Atlanta Braves, Chicago Cubs and Kansas City Royals are regarded as the top suitors.
The Mets had interest in Zobrist as a two-month rental at the trade deadline, but now seem to be more in the market for a stopgap until some of their top middle infield prospects are ready – perhaps as soon as this season. So meeting with Zobrist could simply be a matter of going through the motions and getting a feel for market conditions.
