It seems like everyone is eagerly anticipating the New York Mets making a big splash this winter.
After an unexpected appearance in the National League Championship Series, the Mets are aiming to build a powerhouse in Queens. At the top of their wishlist is superstar outfielder Juan Soto, a player who would undoubtedly come with a hefty price tag. And Soto may just be the beginning of their winter moves.
The Mets, however, are also facing the prospect of losing several key players to free agency after last winter’s strategy of signing numerous one-year contracts. This leaves the team with openings in both their starting rotation and in center field, creating an opportunity for a major trade if they want to address both needs at once.
The Chicago White Sox have top-tier players at both positions who could be available for the right price. CBS Sports’ Mike Axisa recently speculated that the Mets could orchestrate a blockbuster trade to acquire both starting pitcher Garrett Crochet and center fielder Luis Robert Jr. this offseason.
“Here’s a bold prediction: the Mets make a blockbuster trade with the White Sox, bringing Garrett Crochet and Luis Robert Jr. to Flushing,” Axisa said. “The Mets need rotation help with Sean Manaea, Jose Quintana, and Luis Severino all hitting free agency, and they also need a center fielder (no disrespect to Tyrone Taylor, but let’s be real). Crochet and Robert could be traded to the Mets in exchange for a package that includes Brett Baty, Luisangel Acuña, and at least two other prospects. It’s going to happen.”
In acquiring Crochet and Robert, the Mets would land two recent All-Stars who could significantly elevate their roster. However, they would likely be taking on nearly $200 million in future salary commitments. Robert still has up to $55 million left on his contract, including options, while Crochet is looking for a substantial extension from any team that trades for him.
If the Mets can pull off such a deal, it could be one of the most impactful moves of the offseason, even if they don’t land Soto. But with significant competition expected for Crochet in particular, pulling off a deal of this magnitude would require a massive package to make it happen.