After Monday Jeff McNeil trade With the Athletics, the Mets want to “add a right-handed hitter to balance their lineup,” according to a report by Ken Rosenthal and Will Sammon of The Athletic.
New York officials view the move “more as a roster rebuild than a payroll restructuring” since McNeil “no longer occupied a spot in the infield and was locked into left field,” Rosenthal and Sammon reported.
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The Mets recently signed the switch-hitting Jorge Polanco to a two-year, $40 million contract with versatility – first base included — as a plus.
New York’s interest in a right-handed hitter, however, “could end up being someone who can also play first base,” Rosenthal and Sammon reported.
At first base, the Mets did not re-sign the right-hander Pete Alonsowho signed with the Baltimore Orioles for five years and $155 million earlier this month.
Another right-handed hitter Marc Vientoswho plays primarily third base, joins Polanco on New York’s depth chart at first base after slashing .233/.289/.413 with 17 homers and 61 RBIs in 121 games last season.
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Elsewhere in the infield, the Mets landed a right-handed hitter and three-time All-Star second baseman. Marcus Semien from Texas Rangers thanks to deal for outfielder Brandon Nimmo at the end of last month.
Third baseman Alex Bregman and shortstop Bo Bichette are among the best right-handers on the free-agent market, but “they will likely command more years than the Mets want to tolerate,” Rosenthal and Sammon reported.
