Mets Sign Granderson, Opens Up Possibilities

ESPN Inc.

Written by Joseph Thompson (@JThomp9)

Earlier today the New York Mets and Curtis Granderson agreed to a four-year $60 million contract. This is huge for the Mets, as it is their first big free agent since the Jason Bay massacre. With Chris Young signed just a few weeks ago, a logjam is beginning to form in the outfield. With Eric Young and Juan Lagares, two players who played almost everyday last season still on the roster, that leaves one spot for two players. The Mets figure Eric Young will also get some time at second base this season as they try to mold him into the super-sub player. Most importantly, this signing gives the Mets some options and more assets in moving forward in trying to field a better team. So what can the Mets do moving forward?

The impact of the Granderson signing is huge for the Mets. They finally open up the check book on a free agent and get the power lefty bat they have been trying to find since Ike Davis fell into his slump. At the same time they also increased their outfield defense, something the Mets became very proud of last season. If all goes right the Mets should be plugging Granderson into left field and batting him fourth behind David Wright. Granderson, who has only driven in 100 runs once in his MLB career, should be in position to do so this year with Wright ahead of him in the order.

The first thing this signing opens up is Juan Lagares. Lagares proved himself last year as a plus defender in centerfield, something many teams will find valuable. Unfortunately, his bat leaves much to be desired. Even with the weak bat for now, teams could take a chance on Lagares in a trade. With Matt Den Dekker and Cesar Puello in AAA, Lagares is much more expendable now. Of course, Puello and Den Dekker are also tradable but Lagares has the most value right now.

The Granderson signing also opens up the options at first and second base. With three everyday outfielders currently rostered, Eric Young could be the odd man out if the Mets decide to keep Lagares. Young is a natural second baseman and could return there this season. The Mets seem to be hight on Young because of the speed and versatility he brings. There are many rumors about the Mets shopping current second base Daniel Murphy and if any are true Young could be the man to step into the hole left behind my Murphy.