Mets' Best Free-Agency Backup Plans If They Miss on Top Targets

The New York Mets have already made some big moves in free agency this offseason, headlined by the signing of veteran outfielder Michael Cuddyer. However, the Mets might not be done this offseason. There are still a few more particular needs to be addressed before the spring.

The Mets, though, may not end up getting their top targets, and if that's the case going forward, they will need a backup plan for each of their remaining needs. Here are the Mets' best backup plans for free agency if they miss out on their top targets.

Shortstop: Jed Lowrie

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If the Mets fail to sign free-agent shortstop Asdrubal Cabrera or trade for a particular shortstop upgrade, one backup option could be Jed Lowrie.

Lowrie is coming off a down year this past season, but the switch-hitter has shown some power in the past with 16 home runs in 2012 and 15 home runs in 2013.

Lowrie has already stated that he would like to play a position on a full-time basis, whether it be at shortstop or second base. This very likely means he would only want to play somewhere he was going to start every day instead of being a utility infielder.

If Lowrie does not command a high asking price, he could be useful to the Mets, but there is no guarantee that he will be able to provide noticeably more offensive production than Wilmer Flores.

At this point, the Mets would be better off sticking with Flores, but if they feel they can do better, Lowrie would be a decent fallback option.

Right-Handed Reliever: Luke Gregerson

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The Mets likely do not have a specific target in mind among right-handed free-agent relievers, but generally speaking, one name to consider would be Luke Gregerson.

Gregerson spent 2014 with the A's and had five wins and a 2.12 ERA in 72 appearances. His career ERA is 2.75. He would be a great veteran presence within a young Mets bullpen. He could provide guidance, leadership and a reliable option for the team, which the Mets could certainly use.

Left-Handed Reliever: Tom Gorzelanny

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As far as left-handed relievers go, the Mets have recently shown interest in southpaw Craig Breslow.

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#Mets have shown interest in free-agent LH reliever Craig Breslow, sources say.

— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) November 25, 2014"

However, if the Mets do not end up signing Breslow, another veteran left-handed reliever they could consider is Tom Gorzelanny. Gorzelanny had a very good season in 2014 with a 0.86 ERA in 23 appearances.

Gorzelanny should not be a particularly expensive option to give the Mets a second left-handed reliever alongside Josh Edgin. If the Breslow pursuit does not end up being successful, Gorzelanny should become a solid backup choice.

All statistics are courtesy of Baseball-Reference.com.