Mets Rumors: Michael Conforto Nearly Traded to Tigers in Offseason

Recent New York Mets rumors have emerged about a potential blockbuster trade this offseason between them and the Detroit Tigers.

This offseason, there was plenty of New York Mets rumors. Due to Yoenis Cespedes being a free agent, there were a lot of reports about what would happen to the All-Star outfielder.

Since joining the Mets, Cespedes has been the best hitter in their lineup. Even though many expected him to be back despite opting out, the Mets had to have a backup plan in place.

According to Jon Heyman of Fanragsports.com, the Mets were in serious discussions with the Detriot Tigers to trade Michael Conforto for J.D. Martinez. Here’s what Heyman had to say about the possible deal.

"The Mets seriously discussed a straight-up swap of Michael Conforto for J.D. Martinez before re-signing Cespedes but ultimately decided that one year of Martinez for Conforto wasn’t enough. For a while, though, it was a real consideration …"

If Cespedes wasn’t re-signed, this certainly would have been an interesting move for the Mets. Martinez has established himself as one of the best right-handed hitters in the American League, and he would have been a solid replacement for Cespedes.

However, the price would have been steep. The Mets still value Conforto as a prospect and believe he can be a middle of the order hitter for them for years to come. Even though Martinez is a great hitter, he is a free agent at the end of the season. Sending Conforto to Detroit for a possible one-year rental would have been a very tough thing for the Mets’ organization to swallow.

Next: 5 Reasons to be Excited About the Mets in 2017

Since Cespedes re-signed, nothing came of these discussions. However, it shows the value that Conforto still holds as a trade piece for the Mets. Despite his poor 2016 season, the Tigers’ interest in a swap shows that it isn’t just the Mets that believe he can be a great player.