Just Mets

A’s utility man Ben Zobrist was activated from the disabled list last Monday after undergoing minor knee surgery in late April.

Since returning from the disabled list, Zobrist is 4-for-16 with two doubles, a walk and three strikeouts.

But with the A’s continuing to struggle, it’s possible they could retool again this summer, so speculation has begun to swirl Oakland could look to deal the soon-to-be free agent.

And, he could be a hot commodity.

In a report for the Chicago Sun Times, Gordon Wittenmyer says the Cubs are expected to pursue a trade for Zobrist to fortify their depth and bench for a run this summer.

That should not discourage the Mets from pursuing a trade for Zobrist, especially as the uncertainty mounts over when – or if – David Wright returns from the disabled list.

Zobrist isn’t young anymore and is in his walk year, but he’s a switch hitter who has a little bit of pop and speed, can play everyday at any number of positions – including shortstop and second base – and gives the Mets a solid and predictable bat and glove to plug in there and lengthen this lineup. At the very least, he probably wouldn’t cost them one of their top shelf prospects right now, would give Oakland salary relief for the rest of the year, and could make the Mets better right now assuming he’s healthy and stays healthy.

The Mets expressed interest in Zobrist this past winter before the Rays shipped him to Oakland, Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports reported at that time. He’s a great fit for a Met offense starved for production and versatility, so perhaps their interest will be renewed in the former All-Star.

However, if interest continues to build for Zobrist, that will only give the A’s more leverage as time moves forward.

Zobrist, 34, is in the final year of a four-year, $18 million contract extension he signed with the Rays in April, 2010. He will earn $7.5 million this year, after which he can become a free agent.