A notable New York Mets analyst recently listed nine names fans should be aware of as realistic acquisitions ahead of the July 31 MLB trade deadline.
New York will be active before the trade deadline as it looks to bolster a roster with real potential to reach the World Series in October. Supporters are hoping the club can make a blockbuster deal that brings in a game-changing player. However, trades like that are always difficult to make and can be very costly.
On a recent edition of SNY's " Baseball Night In New York ," former Mets general manager Jim Duquette was asked what he feels would be ideal trade deadline scenarios for the team this month. And like a veteran GM, he did not throw out big names like Sandy Alcantara or Emmanuel Clase . Instead, he listed out nine realistic options that could make a difference in 2025.
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Of the position player targets, Duquette lists Diamondbacks All-Star Eugenio Suarez and Orioles centerfielder Cedric Mullins . Surarez is having a massive season ahead of a jump into free agency this winter and is on pace to potentially hit close to 60 homers in 2025. Mullins is having a down season. But he brings a little pop, speed, and good defense in center field. The other analysts on the show felt he had a lot of upside with a change of scenery.
When it comes to starting pitcher targets, the one-time GM believes former Mets draft pick Seth Lugo is an option. The 35-year-old proved during an All-Star campaign in 2024 that he is a starter and not the long man New York tried to turn him into during seven seasons in Gotham. He is having another very good year and likely won't exercise his player option for 2026, so he can test free agency one more time. Duquette believes his addition would push Clay Holmes to the pen and bolster that unit for the second half.
As for bullpen options, the former Mets GM listed David Bednar , Carlos Estevez , Tim Herrin , Angel Zerpa, Gregory Soto , and Caleb Ferguson . The final four are all much-needed lefties. Pirates reliever Caleb Ferguson, and his 2.70 ERA in 41 appearances, is the best of that group.
A deal that brings in him and teammate Bednar would be a big move for the club because both have been very good this season. However, Royals closer Estevez earned All-Star honors this summer with a 2.76 ERA and 25 saves in the first half. He would be a fantastic setup man option behind fellow All-Star, and Mets closers, Edwin Diaz .
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