TODD SQUAD

Mets among teams chasing Frazier

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. — When the Yankees acquired Todd Frazier in July, they made him the third baseman over Chase Headley because they thought he was the better overall fielder. But within that, the Yankees believed Frazier would be far better within their shifting. Often until two strikes — until a bunt was less of a threat — the Yankees would play Frazier at second base, with Didi Gregorius the lone infielder on the left. With two strikes, Frazier and Gregorius would flip-flop, with Frazier essentially becoming the shortstop. It turns out the Yankees might have been helping Frazier get a job.

About 10 teams have expressed various levels of interest in Frazier. Some want him to play third, some want him to play third and first, and there even has been some interest in Frazier at second because analytics show he handled the shifts well.

The Mets are among those who have inquired. They are currently committed to Asdrubal Cabrera at third. Frazier could play third, with Cabrera either flipping to second or becoming a player who moves around the infield. Frazier also could serve as either a righty complement for Dominic Smith or insurance if the first baseman needs to return to the minors.

The Giants and Angels also are among the interested. The Angels filled their hole at second with Ian Kinsler, but have a vacancy at third, plus they are committed to carrying an extra pitcher to lighten the burden on Shohei Ohtani. Thus, the Angels would like to add versatile players to help a shortened bench.