Angels 'Like' Rumored Mets Free Agent Target; Could Los Angeles Sign Six-Time All-star?

Could the Angels actually end up signing the rumored Mets target?

The New York Mets still could use some more help in the middle of the lineup although Opening Day quickly is approaching. 

New York should be able to compete for a postseason spot in 2024 but still has some roster questions. The Mets have been considering an addition at designated hitter, but haven't made a move at this point.

It seems like the Mets are planning on giving Mark Vientos an extended opportunity, but the club still has been linked to free agents like six-time All-Star J.D. Martinez.

Martinez has been linked to the Mets on numerous occasions but he still remains unsigned with Opening Day under two weeks away.

If the Mets want to sign Martinez, it's clear they will have some competition, though. The Los Angeles Angels reportedly are also showing interest in Martinez, according to the New York Post's Jon Heyman.

"(Jordan Montgomery), an October hero who proved better than the (New York Yankees) thought, would seem like another possibility," Heyman said. "But he has been linked more closely to the (Texas Rangers), (Boston Red Sox), (Chicago Cubs), and others.

"At this point, a less expensive star like Martinez might seem more possible. Word is the Angels like him, and the feeling is mutual. But the Angels may prefer to keep the (designated hitter) spot open for (Mike Trout) and Anthony Rendon, their other veteran name who’s much more injury-prone than Trout."

Martinez spent the 2023 season with the Los Angeles Dodgers and was impressive but still is looking for his next opportunity. It's unclear where he will land, but he likely will sign very soon.