Just Mets

The Mets have expressed interest in acquiring super-utility player Ben Zobrist from the A’s, so much so that Joel Sherman of the New York Post has said Sandy Alderson is willing to, “overpay” in trade to acquire the soon-to-be free agent.

The Mets were previously discussing a deal for Zobrist which would’ve involved Rafael Montero, but the A’s were hopeful they could turn their season around and were hesitating to move Zobrist.

Talks had recently progressed to the point the two clubs were discussing a package of prospects to be sent to Oakland, reports Kristie Ackert of the Daily News, although no deal was imminent. But Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports debunked Ackert’s report, saying there were no current discussions between the Mets and A’s regarding Zobrist.

Whatever the case is, there seems to be one problem for the Mets in acquiring Zobrist.

Ed Coleman of WFAN said on-air the Mets are showing reluctance to absorb the remainder of Zobrist’s contract.

In addition, earlier on Tuesday a rival executive told ESPN’s Jerry Crasnick the Mets, “want a middle of the order OF bat who isn’t going to cost anything — in terms of dollars or players.”

Zobrist is owed approximately $3 million through the end of the season.

In fairness, this could all be a negotiating tactic being employed by the Mets, which is fine if that’s the case.

But if it is true, it’s really not clear what the Mets expect to accomplish as they try to augment the roster, considering Zobrist has one of the more reasonable contracts in the game right now.

What’s more, the Mets should be experiencing some salary relief thanks to the insurance policy they have on David Wright’s contract to the tune of $6-8 million. There’s no commitment to Zobrist beyond the end of this season, so it would seem to make sense the a Mets could make this acquisition with ease.

But if they can’t absorb any money this summer, they’re not going to be able to maneuver competitively in this trade market.

Original post, 6:23 pm, update 9:33 pm