Despite having acquired Eduardo Escobar and the expectation of having Robinson Cano back for the 2022 campaign, the New York Mets reportedly expressed interest in third baseman Kris Bryant before MLB owners decided to implement a lockout.
Per the terms of the lockout, there will be no free agent signings, trades, and players won’t be able to use team facilities, not even to rehab injuries. Everything is frozen until MLB and the players’ association can hammer out a new CBA (collective bargaining agreement) deal.
Besides the Mets, the Los Angeles Angels, San Diego Padres, and even the Colorado Rockies were expressing interest in the former Rookie of the Year and MVP of the National League. Per Jon Heyman of MLB Network, the Seattle Mariners, Philadelphia Phillies, and the Houston Astros, also contacted Bryant’s agents.
Bryant will have to wait until the lockout is over to sign with a team, which he is reportedly comfortable with.
The Mets are “probably set†on the position players side, but…
During Max Scherzer’s introductory press conference, Mets GM Billy Eppler mentioned the possibility of adding another position player during this offseason, but said the organization is “being mindful” of not harming its long-term outlook.
“We do feel pretty good about this position player group, but want to remain opportunistic as we navigate the rest of the winter and look for areas that we can improve the club,” Eppler said.
Recently, Andy Martino of SNY had reported the Mets were “probably set on the position player side†after adding outfielders Starling Marte and Mark Canha, in addition to Escobar.
However, a trade involving infielder Jeff McNeil (after the lockout) could change things, and the Mets could theoretically fit Bryant under that scenario.
For now, everything will have to be put on hold until owners and players can alleviate their issues and agree to a new CBA deal, which doesn’t seem it will be soon.