MLB Trade Rumors: Will the New York Mets Trade Carlos Beltran?

The Mets were the first MLB team to make a big splash in the trade arena this week with the deal that sent reliever Francisco Rodriguez to the Milwaukee Brewers along with $5 million, according to Joel Sherman on Twitter, which now puts all focus on the possible outcome of outfielder Carlos Beltran.

That was fast wasn’t it? A week or so ago the headlines were inundated with speculation of Jose Reyes testing the waters, but it appears as if Beltran has moved into the spotlight.

I'll break it down as best as I can.

The Mets did a pretty good thing by dealing K-Rod when they did for several reasons. One of the biggest reasons is it now gives the Mets a huge leverage point in bargaining if teams come looking for the numerous available players the Mets do have, including Beltran.

But has anyone shown interest? Has anyone picked up the telephone, dialed the digits and inquired?

Well, yes and no.

Buster Olney on Twitter has reported that “six, perhaps, seven teams have expressed interest” in Beltran, but Adam Rubin on Twitter countered saying the Mets haven’t “actively engaged”  in anything yet.

There have been three teams that I know of—the Yankees, Red Sox and Giants—that have surfaced as possible suitors.

The Yankees rumor was squashed by Olney and the Giants have more pressing needs at the backstop to entertain the acquisition of Beltran, which leaves only the Red Sox in the crosshairs.

Beltran told WEEI Sports Radio Network that accepting a trade to the Red Sox would be a “no-brainer” and that he would wave his no trade clause if the right situation came up with Boston.

A deal to Boston sort of makes sense since the Red Sox are struggling to get quality offense out of their outfielders, but that’s not the real issue.

The real issue is whether or not the Mets even have to trade Beltran.

As it stands right now, the Mets have one of the most sought-after bats in the majors and don’t have to heighten their sense of urgency regarding a possible deal.

The Mets would likely be looking for a big-time prospect in return, but would yet again have to give more than just Beltran to get what they want.

Decisions, decisions.

For the time being, it is likely that the Mets stay with a level-headed approach regarding Beltran, as they still have other players they could try and deal instead.

At the end of the year, though, if Beltran is still around, I wouldn’t be surprised if he does wind up leaving for greener pastures—you almost get the sense that it’s inevitable.

Stay tuned for additional coverage as the MLB trade arena is just starting to heat up, and for more info on Beltran and other possible players that could be dealt, click here.