MLBTR posted the following today:
The Mets and Pirates strike me as two teams unlikely to contend in 2011. The Nationals, Astros, Diamondbacks, and Padres all made win-now type moves this offseason, but at least a few of these teams will be below .500 on July 31st.
Carlos Beltran, Jose Reyes, and Francisco Rodriguez could be big-name trade chips for the Mets if they’re healthy and playing well in July. Sandy Alderson could at least listen on Mike Pelfrey and Angel Pagan to see if someone will overpay. Additionally, most of the Mets’ free agent signings profile as potential trade bait – Chris Capuano, Chris Young, D.J. Carrasco, Ronny Paulino, and Scott Hairston.
Kevin Kernan of the NY Post also sees Reyes, who is determined on improving his OBP, heading for greener pastures.
The Mets are way ahead of last year in one respect, their shortstop looks phenomenal. Jose Reyes is the one player the Mets should keep, but they have shown absolutely no inclination of signing him to a deal. The free-agent-to-be is as good as gone.
Here’s one nightmare scenario for Team Nightmare: Reyes jumps to the Phillies after the season. Jimmy Rollins is also a free agent after the season. Or maybe the Yankees sign him and make Derek Jeter the DH. It’s all up in the air right now, but he’s likely to be a summer rental. One thing is certain: Some team will make the most of the situation by acquiring Reyes.
Adam Rubin believes three teams could possibly acquire Reyes at the trade deadline and/or sign him next offseason, Boston, San Francisco and Milwaukee.
