CARLSBAD, Calif. — The Mets’ search for versatile infield depth includes an old friend.
In their effort to find a player who can play second base — either as a starter or reserve — and give the team a backup shortstop, club officials have met with the representative for veteran Asdrubal Cabrera, an industry source told The Post on Wednesday.
The 32-year-old Cabrera spent 2 ½ seasons with the Mets before he was dealt to the Phillies at the trade deadline in July for minor league pitcher Franklyn Kilome (who has since undergone Tommy John surgery). If he were to return, the switch-hitting Cabrera could also be an option to see action at the corner-infield positions.
Cabrera slashed .262/.316/.458 with 23 homers and 75 RBIs last season, playing second base for the Mets and then switching primarily to shortstop and third base with the Phillies. He emerged as a fan-favorite in Flushing for playing through injuries and remaining on the field as the team dealt with significant physical issues.
As it stands, general manager Brodie Van Wagenen has Jeff McNeil “penciled in” as the starting second baseman for next season, but Cabrera could challenge for the spot if he were to return. It’s also possible McNeil or Cabrera would platoon with Todd Frazier at third base.
“The way [McNeil] performed last year, we’re really excited about his bat-to-ball skills and the way the roster is constructed now, I think he would be penciled in as our starting second baseman, at this point in time,” Van Wagenen said at the general managers’ meetings. “If that changes then obviously we will evaluate things as we go forward.”
Earlier this week, Van Wagenen said he’s committed to giving Peter Alonso a shot to win the first-base job in spring training, but the Mets have multiple other players who could challenge for playing time at the position, including Jay Bruce, Wilmer Flores and Dominic Smith. Cabrera might figure into the first-base mix as an occasional lefty bat option if the Mets were to trade Bruce.
To this point, Van Wagenen said it’s unclear if Bruce will be a first baseman; the GM spoke to the veteran outfielder recently and said he would let Bruce know if he should plan on working at first base this offseason.
“I think having guys to have the versatility to move around the diamond gives us additional options and gives Mickey [Callaway] a lot of different scenarios he can play around with,” Van Wagenen said. “But our ideal first baseman or a combination first baseman is somebody who can handle the position defensively and give us some offensive production.”
Van Wagenen’s search for bullpen help — lefty Andrew Miller is among the relievers in which the Mets have interest, an industry source confirmed — probably won’t be limited to one arm.
“I can’t imagine we would be looking to view a one-and-done situation,” Van Wagenen said. “I think our goal would be to add multiple pieces that can help us.”
Credit: NY Post</>
via USAHint.com
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