The New York Mets went all in last winter but after falling well short of expectations, it could be time to double down.
The team won the sweepstakes for superstar free agent Juan Soto by offering a record-setting contract, and while Soto performed well, the Mets missed the playoffs and have some real soul searching to do.
If they ultimately decide to reload the roster with even more slugging talent, they could look to buy low on a division rival’s designated hitter by signing three-time All-Star Marcell Ozuna.
“You know what team would actually make quite a bit of sense for Ozuna on a one-year deal? The Mets,” Tim Kelly wrote for Bleacher Report in a roundup of “bold offseason predictions.” “Starling Marte — New York’s primary DH this past winter — will likely depart in free agency. Even at this stage, Ozuna would be an upgrade over him.”
After slugging 39 homers and 104 RBI for the Braves last year, Ozuna saw the potential value of his next contract plummet with a down campaign for the Braves in this season. But he still hit 21 homers and played in 145 games, so he could get the chance to contribute to the Mets’ batting order next year.
Adding Ozuna might not be the kind of difference maker that Mets fans are hoping for, but he could be a relatively cheap upgrade over Marte.
“We’re not suggesting that the Mets only move to address their lineup this offseason is signing Ozuna,” Kelly added. “But something like a one-year, $13 million deal would be a worthwhile investment.”
After a very disappointing season in Queens, a jolt from a division rival could be called for.
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