The New York Mets have had discussions with free agent sluggers Nelson Cruz and Kendrys Morales during the offseason, but it is unlikely that either will sign with the team, according to Andy Martino of the New York Daily News. Martino describes the chances of either player finding a fit in New York as "highly unlikely."
Mets unlikely to sign Nelson Cruz or Kendrys Morales
The team has had discussions with both players, but a match seems unlikely.
Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
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The Mets have had a busy offseason. They have been active on the free agent market, picking up a couple of marquee guys in pitcher Bartolo Colon and outfielder Curtis Granderson, a possible everyday player in outfielder Chris Young and a bit of pitching depth with Daisuke Matsuzaka, John Lannan and Kyle Farnsworth. The additions of Granderson and Young make it difficult to see a spot for Cruz on the roster; those two will likely man the corner outfield positions with defensive standout Juan Lagares in center, leaving nowhere to plug in the former Ranger. With Ike Davis and/or Lucas Duda still manning first base and no designated hitter available in the National League, there isn't a position for Morales to play either.
Both Cruz and Morales rejected qualifying offers from their teams this winter, so signing either one means forfeiting a draft pick. However, the Mets’ first-round pick is protected and they gave up their second-rounder to ink Granderson, so they have less to lose than most other teams in regard to signing top free agents.
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