In mid-February of 2018, the Mets inked Jason Vargas to a two-year deal with a club option for a third season.
Since signing that deal, Vargas has thrown 158.1 IP and has a 4.89 ERA and a 1.358 WHIP.
In the same free agent class, the Cubs signed Yu Darvish to a 6/$126 deal. Since signing, Darvish has 130.1 IP, a 4.97 ERA and a 1.381 WHIP.
So, it’s not only FA relievers who carry risk and uncertainty.
It should be obvious that the Mets should sellers. I heard and read that Frazier is having a good year but looking at the stats on Fangraphs he ranks 12th in WAR, 10th in OPS and 10th in wRC+ among National League third baseman that have over 230 AB’s. Needless to say, the Mets are not going to sign him for next year. Frazier ranks in the lower third so his value his negligible. If the Mets get any offer of a middling minor leaguer then he should accept it. Why? Because it would open up third base for JD Davis and make Dom Smith the full time left fielder. The Mets need to evaluate these players going into the winter.Frazier has no value to the Mets in their present standing.
I hope that they trade Todd to a contender, he didn’t really do much to become a fan favorite but I’d wish him well. But yes you’re right, he wouldn’t return anything more than the 10th best relief prospect from any farm system.
I would not be disappointed if they extended Wheeler and traded Noah for a Major prospect haul.
They could decide that the “double normal” Blown Saves are the culprit, and that would position them for tweaks, versus rebuild
The Mets signed the number 26 ranked international player.
https://www.mlb.com/news/mets-sign-international-prospect-alexander-ramirez
Unless you have a Yankee/Dodger payroll that allows you to eat a bad contract, I don’t believe you can effectively build a winner through free agency. I’ve been saying for years that I’d like to see the Mets get in the business of making smart trades. The one for J.D. Davis is one good example.
The Davis trade was good. It would be better if Frazier gets traded so Davis can earn his stripes and we can see what he has for a half season.