Mets linked to Phillies All-Star, but they must avoid at all cost originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The New York Mets face some very difficult decisions throughout Major League Baseball's offseason, and there's a strong argument that if things aren't fixed this time around, it could be the last time Steve Cohen lets David Stearns make any more difficult decisions.
Ultimately, the Mets have a job to improve on both sides of the baseball, and Stearns is the guy who has to do just that.
There's a lot to like about what some of the Mets showed last year, especially from the young guys, but the team still needs some veteran leadership. That doesn't mean they have to go after overpaid guys or spend a ridiculous amount on free agents, but if the Mets find a guy they like and can afford, it's not a bad idea to suggest that Cohen and Stearns do just that.
As for the recent suggestion, I don't think the Mets need to pursue this.
One MLB.com insider recently suggested Alec Bohm as a guy to pursue, as the Philadelphia Phillies third baseman is a free agent this winter.
"Owner Steve Cohen could look past the money owed to (Jorge) Polanco if he believes Bohm is a good fit for the Mets, who are coming off of two straight seasons without reaching the postseason," Mark Feinsand wrote.
"The Mets' production at first base (.667 OPS) was third worst in the Majors, but Jorge Polanco is signed for $20 million next season. Their .684 OPS at third base ranked 19th in the Majors, but with Bo Bichette signed for $42 million in 2027 (with another $42 million player option for '28), the hot corner wouldn't appear to be available."
Not to say that Bohm is a bad player by any means, as he's been an All-Star throughout his career, but he's not somebody who is going to come into New York and do what's needed on both sides of the baseball. He's an average defender, and his offense from the hot corner isn't much.
The 2024 All-Star had his best season yet, but even then, he hit only 20 home runs.
That was the most Bohm has ever hit in a season, so if the Mets are looking for power production, they won't get it from him.
More MLB news:
- Former Yankees fan favorite Anthony Rizzo sticks up for Aaron Boone amid firing chants
- Yankees shouldn’t fire Aaron Boone, even after getting swept against Rays
- Brewers star weirdly viewed as Yankees trade candidate, but history says it can happen
- Yankees already named among suitors to land 2.83 pitcher in MLB offseason
- Ernie Clement gets reality check heading into next season after down campaign