It goes without saying that the 2023 New York Mets are one of the most disappointing teams in baseball history.
For a sport as historic as baseball, that sure is saying a lot.
Having already traded former Cy Young winners Max Scherzer and Justin Verlander at the trade deadline, the Mets may not be done unloading their all-star talent once the season ends.
According to a report, the team may consider trading star slugger Pete Alonso and shutdown closer Edwin Diaz.
Just a few months ago, the idea of trading away core talent such as Alonso and Diaz would have been considered ludicrous. However, the Mets disastrous performance this season has forced the organization to reassess their options.
A full-blown rebuild is certainly on the table. (Imagine telling that to a Mets fan back in March.)
Bob Nightengale of USA Today recently discussed the potential Alonso/Diaz trade in his column, shedding light on the rationale behind such a move.
@BNightengale just claimed the Mets could look to trade Pete Alonso, along with Edwin Diaz 😬 #LGM pic.twitter.com/3UzJPXUBY8
— Aron McDunnel (@MetsandJets3869) August 6, 2023
Rebuilding teams typically prioritize accumulating valuable assets for the future, and possessing an All-Star closer might be more advantageous on the trade market than on the field.
Diaz’s market value is expected to be substantial, making a trade proposition all the more enticing for a team aiming to reposition itself for long-term success.
Diaz, under contract for the foreseeable future, could yield a significant return for the Mets, potentially providing the team with the prospects, young talent, or draft picks needed to bolster their rebuilding efforts.
The same can be said for 28-year-old home run slugger Alonso. One would think it would be less likely that he would be moved. He’s ultra-popular among Mets fans and is one of the true faces of the franchise. In other words, he’s someone Owner Steve Cohen would prefer to build around.
However, when you have as disappointing of a season as the Mets are having, anything is possible.
What do you think the Mets should do?
Should they trade Alonso and/or Diaz?
Who is the most disappointing team in baseball history?