New York Mets: Buyers
Why: The Mets are 45-38, and just 4.5 games off the division lead. Even if they can’t catch the Nationals, they should compete for a wild card slot.
Who they need: The team could use another impact bat. David Wright has been phenomenal this season, but he needs help. There are already rumors that the team should be looking for another right-handed bat.
The team also needs help in the bullpen, and has reached out to the Padres for Huston Street. They also have been mentioned as players for Francisco Rodriguez, but one Mets’ player says bringing him back would not be good for morale.
Who they can deal: The Mets probably won’t offer any majors pieces. They’ll likely keep their major-league team intact and hope to deal away lower-level prospects to make small improvements at the deadline. In pitchers Zack Wheeler and Matt Harvey, the Mets have the pieces to go after some elite talent, but probably don’t want to deal either of those guys.
Lower-level prospects may not bring in elite talent, but could be enough to get the Mets some help in the bullpen.
Who is available: The Mets are going to aggressively pursue upgrading their bullpen. They’ve already talked to the Padres about Street, and have actually kicked the tires on K-Rod. They could also make a play for Rafael Betancourt or Grant Balfour.
Carlos Quentin might actually be a decent upgrade, but it’s unclear if the team would be willing to move Kirk Nieuwenhuis or Lucas Duda out of the lineup.
Verdict: The Mets are firmly entrenched in the playoff race, but don’t have all that much to offer. They have the pieces to upgrade their bullpen, but they probably won’t make any major moves.