Ex-Blue Jays Slugger Could Be Intriguing Free Agent Pickup For Mets
The New York Mets could end up making another addition before Opening Day rolls around.
New York is expected to be better in 2024 than it was in 2023 but the club still has some question marks. The Mets' biggest question marks right now certainly are in the starting rotation and designated hitter.
The Mets recently lost ace Kodai Senga to injury and it's unclear exactly how much time he will miss. New York has been linked to a few hurlers, but another signing may not be likely.
A more likely option would be to add someone to help out as a designated hitter. New York has been linked to six-time All-Star J.D. Martinez but a deal may not make sense because the club is planning to give extended playing time to some younger players.
If the Mets want to add another player for more depth without completely taking at-bats away from the younger players, one possible option could be former San Francisco Giants and Toronto Blue Jays slugger Brandon Belt.
The one-time All-Star appeared in 103 games with Toronto last season and clubbed 19 home runs and drove in 43 runs. Belt has spent time at first base, left field, right field, and designated hitter throughout his 13-year big league career.
He's the type of player that could provide the Mets with more veteran depth at designated hitter while also providing some defensive flexibility to give other players a day off.
Another upside of Belt is the fact that he certainly would cost less than Martinez. If the Mets want to make another addition, Belt is the perfect type of player to look out for.