By Drew VonScioShareNewsweek is a Trust Project memberDavid Stearns and the New York Mets now have another opening in the outfield and have to find a way to fill it this offseason.
Jeff McNeil could take over left field after the team acquired Marcus Semien via trade, but that would leave two open outfield spots if the Mets choose to keep him in a utility role. The organization has not specified McNeil's role for next season since the trade.
Regardless, the Mets know they need to fill the void in center field. MLB insider Mark Feinsand believes that void could be filled by grabbing Cody Bellinger from their cross-town rivals, the New York Yankees.
..."The recent trade of Brandon Nimmo opened a spot in the Mets’ outfield, creating an opportunity for Bellinger, who proved his ability to perform in New York during his first season with the Yankees," Feinsand wrote for MLB.com. "Bellinger would also provide first-base insurance in the event that Pete Alonso signs elsewhere."
Stearns likely does not want to picture life without Alonso for next season, even though the possibility remains high. If Alonso does leave and Bellinger signs with the Mets, he could play first base in a limited capacity, as he played there in seven games this year for the Yankees.
Bellinger's next deal is projected to be worth $168 million over six years, an average of $28 million per year for the Mets or whichever team signs him.
One bonus for the Mets, in addition to possibly using him at first base, is that Bellinger could play left or center field. Manager Carlos Mendoza could use him in either outfield spot defensively based on matchup for New York.
It would not be surprising to see the Mets pursue Bellinger this winter and keep their negotiations with him separate from anything about Alonso. Owner Steve Cohen has shown he will do whatever it takes to win, and adding Bellinger would help take their team to the next level.
More MLB: Red Sox Tabbed Perfect Match for Mets Slugger Pete Alonso
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