Feeling uneasy about the Mets’ playoff prospects? David Stearns, their new baseball president, faces his first trade deadline challenge as the Mets grapple with bullpen woes. Injuries to key relievers Drew Smith, Brooks Raley, and Sean Reid-Foley have stretched the bullpen thin. Edwin Diaz’s suspension adds to the uncertainty. With the Mets jostling for a wild-card spot, bolstering the bullpen is critical.
The rest of the Mets’ lineup and rotation show promise, with depth stronger than many competitors, especially considering rotations. Their main vulnerability lies in the bullpen, with heavily used veterans and untested journeymen. Acquiring proven MLB relievers is crucial for their playoff push. Stearns eyes potential trades to reinforce their relief crew as they, fortunately, don’t need position or rotation help.
Relief options are slim in early July as few teams are selling. Desired talents include Tanner Scott from the Marlins, Pete Fairbanks from the Rays, and ex-Met Paul Sewald from the Diamondbacks. Trade negotiations will heat up mid-July, testing Stearns’ ability to transform the Mets’ bullpen and keep playoff hopes alive.
