Nicole P. asks…

Dominic Smith was one of my favorite players this year but I’m worried that the Mets are going to trade him. I’d hate to see him become an All-Star for another team. Do you think they’ll trade him?

Rob Piersall answers…

Hey, Nicole! Thanks for the question.

I don’t think you’re alone in supporting Dominic Smith. In fact, there’s a whole movement on Twitter known as the “Dom Smith Stan Squad!”

The former first round pick really came into his own in 2019. It all started in Spring Training when he came into camp in tip top condition and stayed in shape the entire season. This past winter he also addressed his sleep apnea problem, which I think played a big role in his game escalating.

However, let’s not forget that Smith has pretty much hit at every level he’s played at in his professional career. It’s no surprise he finally strung it together this year. He’s too talented to not have.

Smith has been the talk of some trade discussion already along with J.D. Davis. Being that they are both young and inexpensive, they are appealing to other teams and could yield a return for the Mets to address other needs on the team such as the bullpen.

If it were up to me, I would keep both Smith and Davis in place. A big issue for the Mets this season was their lack of depth off the bench.

This winter, Smith said he is going to be working on getting accustomed to all three outfield positions to increase his versatility.

As long as Pete Alonso is entrenched at first base, Smith learning to play outfield is likely his key to get more playing time. But honestly, having him off the bench is not a bad thing. In fact, it makes the Mets more well rounded and gives them the depth they so desperately need.

I think that we will likely hear Smith’s name floated around in trade discussions this winter, and rightfully so. At 24-years-old and being a former first round pick, it’s likely we haven’t even seen Smith hit his ceiling yet. That could be appealing for a team that has a need for a first baseman.

If I’m the Mets though, the only scenario I’m trading Smith is if I’m getting back MLB ready talent that is going to make us better right away. You don’t have to trade Smith by any means, so he shouldn’t just be given away, or used as a throw in to sweeten the pot.

Plus, I think Smith’s personality is infectious to those around him. He’s become buddies with Alonso and Davis and is a lighthearted presence in the clubhouse. His talent plus his intangibles make Smith an asset to the team.

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