In the realm of free agency, there are still several top-tier players available as we approach spring training.
It is surprising that Cody Bellinger, Matt Chapman, Blake Snell, Jordan Montgomery, and J.D. Martinez have yet to sign with any team.
Negotiations are ongoing for all of them, however.
In the case of Martinez, he is a superb option for teams in need of offensive prowess and willing to overlook defensive shortcomings (as well as his age).
MLB analyst Jon Morosi views the New York Mets as a potential landing spot.
According to MLB Network, Morosi believes, “‘To me, the Mets are as likely as anyone else to sign J.D. Martinez.’ He also mentions another team to keep an eye on for potential interest in the free agent slugger.”
Morosi adds that he would be surprised if the Chicago Cubs don’t acquire one of the aforementioned players (Bellinger, Martinez, and Chapman).
While the Mets may not be going all-in to win the 2024 World Series, they aim to remain competitive.
This could lead them to sign the 36-year-old Martinez, who had an impressive 33 home runs last season with the Los Angeles Dodgers in just 113 games.
Such a move would provide the Mets with flexibility and choices leading up to the deadline.
If they find themselves in contention, they can retain Martinez and pair him with the likes of Pete Alonso, Francisco Lindor, Brandon Nimmo, Starling Marte, Francisco Alvarez, and others to maintain a strong lineup and make a playoff push.
If they fall out of contention, they have the option to trade him to a contender in exchange for prospects.
Either way, it would be a beneficial move for the Mets.
However, they face competition in their pursuit of Martinez.