Mets Robinson Cano must go, four landing spots
By Ed Stein
Toronto Blue Jays
Last season the Toronto Blue Jays were steamrolled by the top three teams in the division. They were a combined 22-35 (.386) against the New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox, and Tampa Bay Rays. It was a major factor in their disappointing 67-95 record. They had plenty of problems, one of which was a lack of consistent hitting.
At this point in his career, it’s obvious that Robinson Cano would succeed the most in a DH role. He is the perfect designated hitter for this rebuilding team. Last season, the Jays hit 247 long balls, 11 different players had double-digit dingers. On the other hand, they batted at only a .236 clip. Only one player, Eric Sogard, who had over 300 plate appearances hit .300 or better. Toronto could use a steady hitter like Cano in the middle of their lineup.
This could work out personnel-wise. In addition to the need for Cano’s bat in the lineup, first baseman Justin Smoak is a free agent. Toronto could get Dominic Smith to play first. The cost of doing business is paying a big price tag for someone who would be their DH. In this scenario, the Mets might even get a decent player in return.
Miami Marlins
Saying the Miami Marlins are a bad team is like saying that a skunk stinks. They haven’t had a winning season in a decade when the 2009 team won 87 games. Talk about a team lacking star power, the Marlins have none. Robinson Cano is exactly what Miami needs.
The Marlins have serious public relations issues. A bad product on the field combined with an unpopular stadium project has alienated the Marlins from their fans. Cano can come into the Miami locker room and be a leader on the field as well as the public face of the team.
CEO Derek Jeter knows Cano from when they were Yankees teammates. He could be willing to commit some of the team’s limited resources to get the second baseman from New York. Van Wagen will have to eat some money in a trade. Depending on how much they would pay or kick in the Mets could get a relief pitcher or young outfielder in a trade.