Mets Openly Put Player on Trade Block Ahead of Spring Training
Officially in 2024, the New York Mets still have plenty of roster building that needs to be done before Spring Training gets underway. With that important period right around the corner, new president of baseball operations David Stearns has surely identified a few players who might not make sense to bring to camp.
In fact, one of those members of the team is now reportedly on the trade block.
Mets have indicated to teams they are open to trading Omar Narvaez, who would welcome a chance to play somewhere with at least semi-regularity. Mets have Tomas Nido in the minor leagues making $2.1 million for the coming season.
— Mike Puma (@NYPost_Mets) January 4, 2024
Mets Rumors: Omar Narvaez on the Trade Block
Mike Puma of the New York Post reports the Mets "have indicated to teams" that they're "open" to trading catcher Omar Narváez. Puma adds Narváez would "welcome a chance to play somewhere with at least semi-regularity," which shows mutual interest in parting ways.
It makes total sense for New York to shop Narváez considering the glut at catcher with Francisco Alvarez entrenched as starter and Thomas Nido providing cheap depth. Paying $7 million for a backup in Narváez just isn't smart spending given New York's situation, so it's wise to see what other catchy-needy teams would offer.
Narváez's move to New York certainly didn't go as well as most hoped. The veteran slashed just .211/.283/.297 while recording a meager 2 home runs and 7 RBI across 49 appearances in 2023.
The 2022 campaign wasn't particularly strong for Narváez, either, but his impressive 2021 performance (11 HRs, 49 RBI in 123 games) earned him an All-Star nod and showcased his potential in a bigger role. That should give him at least some trade value to clubs looking for backstop help.
There's still plenty of offseason to go, but as things stand right now the Mets are considered distant underdogs to win the NL East in 2024.
Odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.