The Mets' shortstop search continues as they have expressed interest in Ramirez.
The Mets are currently in a well-documented search for a starting shortstop. According to Bruce Levine of CBS Chicago, the Mets have contacted the Chicago White Sox regarding their shortstop, Alexei Ramirez.
Levine insists that the Mets and White Sox are a perfect match if they were to negotiate with each other:
The Mets also have exactly what the White Sox are looking for if they agree to move Ramirez.
Chicago needs starting pitching – especially right-handed power pitchers. Righty Noah Syndergaard and righty Rafael Montero are at the top of that list.
Ramirez, 33, had a solid season in 2014, posting a slash line of .273/.305/.408 with a 97 wRC+ and 21 stolen bases in 657 plate appearances, enough to make him worth 3.3 Wins Above Replacement, according to FanGraphs. He is generally regarded as a good defender and has played in 158 games in four consecutive seasons.
Ramirez is due to make $10 million in 2015 with a club option for 2016 of the same dollar amount. He seems to be a logical fit for the Mets given their need at the position, potential price in a trade, and possibility of retaining him past 2015. Add him to the long list of shortstops the Mets should keep their eye on this offseason.