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The New York Mets made it clear to the baseball world that they were all-in to win during the offseason when they sent nearly $800 million to Juan Soto to land the star free agent.
Fast forward a few months, and the Mets need to continue this aggression at the trade deadline. New York has a few spots on its roster to upgrade in the coming weeks.
Josh Mayer of Rising Apple recently suggested Minnesota Twins star outfielder Byron Buxton would be the Mets’ dream trade target ahead of the trade deadline.
“Well, this would certainly make a splash. The Mets’ starting centerfielder is currently Tyrone Taylor, who flashes one of the best gloves in the game but is, for the most part, a liability at the plate,” Mayer wrote. “Bringing in Buxton, an above-average fielder who also happens to be one of the best hitters in the sport, would fill the offensive hole without having to miss a strong defensive presence in center (and if you’re thinking about Taylor’s elite baserunning, no worries — Buxton is even better in that regard).
“Although he’s missed a few games, Buxton has managed to stay relatively healthy this year and has thrived, slashing .270/.338/.544 with 20 home runs and 53 RBI. The injury history makes trading for Buxton a gamble, but given his talent, it’s one the Mets might want to take.”
Buxton’s kryptonite is health. As the old saying goes, the best ability is availability. Buxton won’t be worth much to any team if he’s always hurt.
But he’s healthy this year. And he’s reminding the baseball world that he’s one of the most electric players in baseball when he’s healthy.
Buxton is nearly a true five-tool player. He plays incredible, Platinum Glove-level defense in the outfield. He’s also a valuable base runner with stolen base ability.
At the plate, Buxton is a true power threat with 480-foot home run potential. The only flaw seems to be his health.
If the Mets can acquire him at the trade deadline, they would be foolish to opt out because of his health. Buxton is a risk worth taking.
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