–Originally posted November 8, 2015–

With what is the likely departure of Daniel Murphy, the Mets are faced with a choice on how to proceed at the position, either by filling their need internally or going to the markets and looking for a solution either in free agency or trade.

But the Mets might also need to consider bulking up at shortstop, especially if they decide to fill their need at second base internally.

Simply put, the Mets middle infield defense was utterly dreadful in 2015.

How bad was it? If the Mets had even league average defense at those two positions, it might have been enough to win the World Series.

Mets shortstops were tenth in the league with a 2.9 WAR, largely being carried by their offense as they were 26th in the league with a -9.0 ultimate zone rating (UZR) and dead last with -26 defensive runs saved (DRS).

That along with -10 DRS from Mets second basemen – fifth worst in the league – and a 2.9 UZR – 15th best – make for a dire need to upgrade their middle infield defense in general.

They could also stand to get a little more right-handed/versatile at the plate to limit a weakness late in games and force the opposing manager’s hand with their bullpen more often.

Here’s a look at how the Mets might choose to upgrade their middle infield… Continue reading →