MLB Rumors: Mets Linked To Superstar In Offseason Trade

The New York Mets' season was a disaster. No other way to put it. After spending over half a billion dollars last offseason, the team fizzled and is winding down the season a full 30 games (!) out of top spot in the NL East. 

It's expected that billionaire owner Steve Cohen will do everything he can to rectify that situation this winter, and according to MLB Insider Jeff Passan, that could start with a trade for superstar Juan Soto from the San Diego Padres.

Jeff Passan on @baseballisdead_ Podcast:

“The Mets are a scary possibility for Juan Soto & I think the Mets probably are in a better position to offer prospects to go out & get him because I think Mets ownership has shown the aptitude & desire to sign guys like Soto long-term.”

— Mike Mayer (@mikemayer22) September 27, 2023

 “The Mets are a scary possibility for Juan Soto," said Passan, "and I think the Mets probably are in a better position to offer prospects to go out & get him because I think Mets ownership has shown the aptitude & desire to sign guys like Soto long-term.”

The 3-time All-Star and World Series champ was traded to San Diego by the Washington Nationals last season after he turned down a $400M extension offer to stay in DC long-term. It's not known what price he'd command these days in a long-term deal, but it likely wouldn't stray far from that number. 

Soto has had an "under the radar" terrific season this year with the Padres, blasting 35 home runs, along with 108 RBIs, and a .935 OPS. His OPS+ is a rousing 159, putting him in the Top 10 in baseball. 

The Mets outfield could certainly use some thunder, as the current alignment of Brandon Nimmo, Jeff McNeil and (the injured) Starling Marte provide plenty of on-base potential, but minimal power. 

Keep an eye on the Mets and a possible Soto deal this winter. 

Photo: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports