New York Mets: Top Ten most impactful trades in past twenty years

Jun 20, 2015; Cleveland, OH, USA; Former Cleveland Indians

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joke around during a celebration to honor the 1995 Cleveland Indians American League Championship team before the game between the Cleveland Indians and the Tampa Bay Rays at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports

1. July 29, 1996: Jeff Kent and Jose Vizcaino to the Cleveland Indians for Carlos Baerga and Alvaro Espinoza.

Carlos Baerga was an All-Star second baseman when the Mets acquired him middle of the 1996 season. He was a switch-hitting second baseman who was an important part of the young Cleveland Indians team that won 100 games en route to the pennant in the 1995 season. In giving up Vizcaino and Kent, they were hoping for the same type of production that made him an All-Star.

The problem was the Mets already had this type of player on their roster in Jeff Kent. A young infielder who played out of position at third base and shortstop was a defensive liability, and a clubhouse distraction who never had the chance in Queens to reach his full potential.

It was not until he was traded to the San Francisco Giants did he truly begin to shine. Batting behind Barry Bonds. Kent hit a whopping 377 home runs in his career. He was considered one of the best power hitters in the league, especially considering the position he played. In the mid 90s, second baseman were historically players who were speedy with high on base percentages. Corner infielders and outfielders were considered the “traditional power positions”

Baerga would develop knee problems and never remotely come close to replicating his success in Cleveland in Queens during his 2.5 seasons in New York. Vizcaino was serviceable versatile middle infielder who played both short and second.

Next: No.9