MLB Offseason Rumors: 5 Late Moves Mets Could Make to Contend

The New York Mets get another opportunity to play in October.  With the start of the 2013 MLB season two months away, teams around the league contemplate roster moves to improve their chances of playing in the World Series. 

After completing the R.A Dickey trade, the 2013 season will be another year of rebuilding for the Mets but their 2012 season provided hope of contention.

After the first half of the season, the Mets were only 4.5 games back from the Washington Nationals before starting the second half losing 10 out of 11 games derailing their season.

A few acquisitions and internal transactions could help the Mets contend for a playoff berth for the first time since 2006. 

Signing Michael Bourn

In acquiring Michael Bourn, the Mets would gain a speedy leadoff hitter with comparable numbers to Reyes in 2012.

Mets are interested in acquiring Michael Bourn but the team is not willing to part with their first round draft pick they must surrender due to the new collective bargaining agreement, according to ESPN.

After losing Jose Reyes to the Miami Marlins, the Mets have been lacking the production Reyes brought to the table.

In 2012, Bourn hit .274 with a .348 OBP, 57 RBI, scored 92 runs, and stole 42 bases while Reyes hit .287 with a .347 OBP, 57 RBI, scored 86 runs, and stole 40 bases.

The addition of Bourn would add experience and production to an outfield that is currently lacking it.

Signing Brian Wilson (if Healthy)

Brian Wilson and his beard are looking for a team after the San Francisco Giants non-tendered him.

According to ESPN, Alderson will watch former Giants closer pitch for the second time this offseason while he recovers from a second Tommy John surgery. 

The Mets look to improve a bullpen staff that ranked 29^th in ERA (4.56) and 24^th in saves (36).

According to the New York Post, Alderson announced that current Mets closer Frank Francisco retains his position for now.  Francisco’s 2012 season was subpar after recording 23 saves, blowing three, and ending the his season early with a  5.53 ERA.

Wilson's relentless pitching style and personality would be a welcome change for the Mets.

Signing Roy Oswalt

The Mets can bolster their anemic bullpen with the acquisition of Roy Oswalt. 

According to ESPN, the Mets are interested in adding Roy Oswalt to their pitching staff even after the signing of Shaun Marcum.

The 35-year-old right-hander has a career record of 163-96 with a 3.28 ERA.  Last season, Oswalt pitched through nagging injuries after signing with the Texas Rangers and finished the season coming out the bullpen after the acquisition of Ryan Dempster.  

At this stage in Oswalt's career, the Mets could sign him to a one-year deal, remain competitive, and re-sign him to one-year deals if both parties wish to continue the relationship.

Call Up Zack Wheeler

In addition the acquisition of Shaun Marcum and current interest in Roy Oswalt, Zack Wheeler can solidify either the rotation or the bullpen for the Mets.

According to the New York Daily News, the Mets expect Wheeler to join the team later on in the season but will not be called up for opening day.  

Wheeler went 12-8 with a 3.26 ERA and 148 strikeouts in 149 innings during his 2012 season in the minors.  With a crowded starting rotation, Wheeler can help the Mets bullpen that went 16-29 with a 4.65 ERA.

Projected to be a starter in the future for the Mets, Wheeler can get accustomed to the pressure of the major league as a reliever first.

Call Up Travis d'Arnaud

Travis d'Arnaud will get an opportunity to prove he is the difference maker Alderson wanted.

During an interview on WFAN, Alderson stated d'Arnaud would have to win the starting catcher’s job to be on the Opening Day roster.  The highly talented prospect was traded to the Mets in return for NL Cy Young Award winner R.A. Dickey.

Last season in triple-A, d'Arnaud batted .333 with 16 HRs and 52 RBI in 66 games before season ending knee injury.

d'Arnaud could be the power hitter the Mets need in the middle of the lineup to rejuvenate the offense and fan base alike.