Just Mets

The Mets are continuing to search for ways to upgrade their production in the outfield, especially as uncertainty mounts over Michael Cuddyer and the bone bruise in his knee.

The Mets have reportedly shown some level of interest in Justin Upton, Carlos Gomez, Gerardo Parra and Ben Zobrist to fill this need, although the Mets prefer to acquire a left-handed hitting outfielder, according to Joel Sherman of the New York Post.

But while Jon Morosi of FOX Sports says Parra remains a target for the Mets, they’re also showing interest in Padres OF Will Venable, who may fit the Mets criteria.

Venable checks the box as being a left-handed hitting outfielder. He’s about league average defensively but capable of playing all three outfield positions reliably.

He’s played mostly everyday for the Padres in 2015, but he might ultimately be better suited in a part-time role as his production drops off considerably against left-handed pitching. But he would certainly be a quality depth move and shore up the club’s bench if he were to be a secondary acquisition, which is an absolute abomination this season.

The Mets have shown a willingness to move several prospects including former first round selections Brandon Nimmo, Gavin Cecchini, and perhaps Dominic Smith, as well as Double-A pitcher Michael Fulmer this summer. However, any of these pieces would be considered an overpay for someone of Venable’s ilk.

No matter what, the Mets are going to have to acquire at least one outfielder ahead of the July 31 non-waiver trade deadline, as Cuddyer’s knee continues to keep him off the field.

There have been internal discussions about calling up Michael Conforto from Double-A, but it seems as though the Mets would prefer to acquire big league help in the outfield first and allow Conforto to continue developing in the minors.