This offseason, the New York Mets must improve at designated hitter.
This offseason, New York made waves for its pursuit of Orix Buffaloes star Yoshinobu Yamamoto. The Mets also need to upgrade their starting rotation, and if they do, they will likely shift their focus back to designated hitter.
The Mets have been linked to multiple sluggers so far this offseason, including a reunion with two-time All-Star Justin Turner. He spent three-plus seasons in New York and is a free agent after a strong season with the Boston Red Sox in 2023.
It’s unclear where he will land, but it sounds like the Mets will have stiff competition for his services. One club that could show interest is the Toronto Blue Jays, according to Sportsnet’s Ben Nicholson-Smith.
“If (Scott Boras) is seeking a seven-year commitment for (Matt Chapman), some teams may turn their focus elsewhere, but there’s no doubt he’s among the best players available,” Nicholson-Smith said. “The (San Francisco Giants) are seen as a viable landing spot for the 30-year-old, with the Blue Jays, (Chicago Cubs), and (Los Angeles Angels) mentioned as possible fits by other industry observers.
“But while there’s scarcity at third base, there’s some depth to the DH market, which may allow the Blue Jays to wait. Sure, they could rush to get something done today, and they have some degree of interest in (Rhys Hoskins), (J.D. Martinez), Joc Pederson, Justin Turner, and Joey Votto, among various others, but they may be able to wait on that front, knowing that someone talented will be available in four or five weeks, perhaps at a lower price.”
This isn’t too surprising. The Blue Jays need help at the designated hitter spot this offseason as well and Turner is one of the best options available. There likely won’t be much movement in the free agent market until Yamamoto signs, but don’t be surprised if the Mets quickly pivot toward someone like Turner afterward.
