The New York Mets are setting their sights on pending free agent Shin-Soo Choo according to Andy Martino of the NY Daily News.
Martino reports that rival executives and Mets officials both describe the Mets liking Choo, while one of Martino's sources suggests the Mets would not enter a "crazy" bidding war for the Reds' centerfielder.
Martino indicates that if acquired, the Mets would probably not use Choo in center field like the Reds have:
Rookie Juan Lagares’ brilliant defense probably prevents the team from spending on that position, and one team source noted that Choo would fit perfectly in right field, replacing the surprising production the team received this year from Marlon Byrd, albeit with a higher OBP.
Instead, the Mets could look to add a second corner outfielder through trade or free agency. Martino notes that much of this is only initial discussion and resulting posturing but it's clear Choo could be in the mix at Citi Field.
Choo, 31, enters his tenth season in 2014. He's a career .289/.389/.466 hitter but is notoriously weaker against left handers, going just .243/.340/.339 lifetime.
Choo is a client of Scott Boras and is also drawing interest from the Cubs.
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- Mets plan to tender Ike Davis
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- Mets may trade Frank Francisco by end of season
- Matt Kemp and Jacoby Ellsbury: Center fielder injuries have October implications
