Mets shop bargain bin while others splurge

T’was the week before Christmas and the Mets are apparently just nestled in their beds, dreams of a former All-Star, admittedly on the downside of his career or an outfielder falling back into their financial atmosphere, apparently dancing in their heads. On Wednesday, baseball was getting down to business. The Giants pulled off a trade for third baseman Evan Longoria (third base is a position of concern for the Mets, but this was not something they were actively pursuing) The Mets are looking for insurance for Smith, who hit just .198 with nine home runs and 26 RBI in 49 major league games this season.

The Mets want a temporary solution, a short-term deal, that will not block Smith long term, and considering Adams signed a one-year deal it would make sense.

Instead, the Mets have targeted five-time All-Star Adrian Gonzalez as a better fit, which is little comfort for their fans who just want to see them make some investment to improve on a disaster of a 2017 season.

His slugging percentage dropped to .355 from .435 in 2016 and .480 in 2015. His OPS dropped to .642 from .734 in 2016 and .830 in 2015.

Remember, however, that he is a five-time All-Star whose numbers when healthy are just all-around better than Adams.

“Gonzalez definitely has a better track record, but he is on the down side now,” one talent evaluator said. “His power numbers are sliding.”

In Adams, the Nats see a younger player whose power is improving and can be a power backup Ryan Zimmerman.