New York Mets reportedly interested in Adrian Gonzalez

Evaluating the potential of Adrian Gonzalez as a member of the New York Mets.

The New York Mets have holes to fill on this roster. However, Sandy Alderson hasn’t been given an unlimited budget to do it with. Marc Carig of Newsday said it best, the Mets ownership doesn’t spend money on the team and never says why. Be that as it may, the fact of it causes Alderson to become creative when trying to improve this baseball team.

Dominic Smith didn’t perform quite as well as the team brass hoped in 2016. It’s been known that the Mets are trying to bring in reinforcements at first base. James Wagner of the New York Times believes they may be looking for a veteran first baseman:

This says Mets may have been interested in 1B Mitch Moreland: https://t.co/vSNgRR9Dsl. I’ve heard Mets will at least consider 1B Adrian Gonzalez, who was released by Braves today.
— James Wagner (@ByJamesWagner) December 19, 2017

Gonzalez may be turning 36 years old next season, but if he is healthy, he would still make a solid addition to the team, even on a part-time basis.

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Yes he only hit three home runs last season but he was hampered by a back injury. Any Mets fan knows exactly what a back injury does to a power hitter. Ask David Wright if you have any questions there.

However, prior to that, Gonzalez played less than 150 games only once since the 2006 season. He has always been one of the most durable players in the sport and that is important if bringing a veteran to town.

Until last season, Adrian Gonzalez played in at least 150 games and drove in at least 90 runs every year after turning 30 years old. Last season was the first time he fell short due to the back problems. Prior to last season he was a picture of consistency.

Now, this also shows the nature of just what a back injury can do to a player. It can be crippling. For the Mets that means they must be completely convinced that Gonzalez is healthy. Even if they don’t intend on him as a starter, he must be a solid backup and power bat off of the bench. He cannot fill that role if is back is still a problem.

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He is a five-time All Star and a four-time Gold Glove winner. Is Adrian Gonzalez past his prime? Sure. But could a healthy version teach Dominic Smith a thing or two about playing first base and being a pro? Absolutely. He would be a wonderful signing if the Mets determine he is healthy.

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