Rays, Mets Reportedly Have Discussed Trade For Veteran Outfielder After Solid Season

It sounds like the Mets and Rays could link up on a possible offseason trade

The New York Mets could use a new outfielder this offseason and it sounds like they are attempting to make some moves.

New York mainly has been linked to free-agent pitchers, but the club has many holes on the roster that it needs to fill outside of the rotation. One of those holes is in the outfield. One player who reportedly could be a trade candidate is Tampa Bay Rays outfielder Manuel Margot, according to the New York Post's Joel Sherman. 

"The (New York Yankees) and Mets are among at least five teams that have inquired on Rays outfielder Manuel Margot, one of the players most likely to be traded this offseason," Sherman said. "The Yankees’ interest is a renewal of a pursuit they had at the trade deadline when Tampa Bay made the veteran righty hitter available but ultimately did not move him.

"But the expectation this offseason is that Margot will definitely be traded. The Rays need to prune salaries and Margot is owed $10 million for 2024 — the most currently for a Tampa Bay position player."

Margot has impressed in four seasons with the Rays but has dealt with a handful of injuries that have kept him off the field. He would be a solid pickup for the Mets if he's healthy. In 2023 he slashed .264/.310/.376 with four home runs and 38 RBIs in 99 games. New York needs a lift and Margot wouldn't cost much in a trade. Tampa Bay wants to shed salary and the Mets have the prospect capital needed to get a deal done. Plus, the free agent position-player market is thin so it may make sense for the Mets to bolster the outfield through trade. Certainly, keep an eye on Margot.