David Wright Trade Talk: 10 Packages the NY Mets Could Accept for Their Star

The New York Mets are in a holding pattern. They are waiting for Jose Reyes. They are waiting for the walls in their park to be moved in. They are waiting for a jury trial for their part in the Madoff case. While they wait, the rest of the league improves. They do have a player currently on their roster that's a great option for a team to move on. He's David Wright.

By trading Wright, the Mets can accomplish a few things. First, they can build for the future. They are not ready to contend in the next few years. The vast majority of their talent is in the minor leagues, and therefore, not ready to make an impact in Queens for a while.

Secondly, by trading Wright, the Mets can signify to the league that they are experiencing a changing of the guard. That would accomplish one major thing—they would be putting the MLB on notice that they are open to any and all trade possibilities. They would be baseball's version of "Let's Make a Deal". That would eventually help their roster get younger but keep experienced players around.

Finally, they would be admitting to the fans that they are not going to contend for a while. That honesty would be a breath of fresh air. Fans would welcome a few years of young talent struggling in exchange for a long-term change of culture into a winning and competitive team.

I may be wrong on this, but I believe the one thing the fans really want is a winner, and they will be patient in the right circumstances. With all of this said, there are several teams that would be more than happy to take Wright off the hands of the Mets' brass.

I outlined several of these teams in a previous article entitled "David Wright: 7 teams that would be very interested in him". As an attempt to further elaborate on that article, allow me to present a power ranking of some packages those teams and a few others could offer that the Mets, as the Godfather once said, "couldn't refuse." 

No. 10: Milwaukee Brewers

The Milwaukee Brewers were two wins away from the World Series. For a team that won 96 games, to think that they were only two away from a chance at glory has to be maddening. Add into the mix, the free agency of Prince Fielder and the Brewers are not just looking to make minor improvements, they are looking to replace parts with comparable players.

There's no player on the free-agent market outside of Albert Pujols that can compare to Fielder's production, but they can try to make up for some of it and fill a need by making a trade. This is where David Wright comes in to play.

If they lose Fielder, they will look for a big bat in free agency first. After this, they will look at the trade market. Wright is a productive hitter that may be looking to benefit from a change in venue. The Mets would have to be blown away or fill multiple needs while being relieved of some of the financial burden of Wright's contract.

The following proposal does just that. The names don't blow anyone away, but it fills needs, and the Brewers have shown the willingness to take on payroll. 

Offer for the Mets

David Wright for Shawn Marcum, Carlos Gomez and a player to be named later

Why it's a good for the Mets

The Mets fill the need for an extra outfield option and add a proven starting pitcher. They gain more flexibility with their payroll as well. The combined payroll for these two players is just a little over $5 million while Wright's payroll in contrast is nearly $15 million. Even if the Mets pay part of that contract for Wright, they will save a considerable amount of money.

Why it's good for the Brewers

The Brewers would get a great player that hustles and plays the game the way it should be played. He is a leader and an example. They get some production to replace the potential loss of Prince Fielder.

No. 9: Detroit Tigers

The Detroit Tigers are a team with urgency. They are getting a little older, and their window to win a championship is getting smaller by the season. They have the pitching, the bullpen and the offense, but they need a player to push them past the competition.

They may begin to look toward the trade market to do this. One player they have considered in the past is David Wright. Lynn Henning of The Detroit News reported back in May that they were considering trading for him prior to the July deadline.

They needed protection for Miguel Cabrera and an upgrade from Brandon Inge. They still do. This is a major possibility as the offseason progresses. What could the Tigers offer to blow the Mets away? A few young pitchers with experience and an outfielder with a lot of upside coming off an injury.

Add to it that the Tigers would take a substantial amount of financial burden off their Mets hands, it makes sense on both fronts.

Offer to the Mets

David Wright for Rick Porcello, Andrew Oliver and Brennan Boesch

Why it's good for the Mets

This deal helps the Mets obtain young pitching in Oliver, a solid lefty, Porcello who has MLB experience (89 starts with a 38-30 record) and depth in the outfield with a good, young outfielder that can hit well but is coming off thumb surgery.

Why it's good for the Tigers

The Tigers needed help for their lineup. In addition to Cabrera, they have Victor Martinez. A player like David Wright would place himself nicely into the three spot of that lineup. He would benefit with a player like Austin Jackson on the bases and Cabrera on deck.  

No. 8: Philadelphia Phillies

If you are a diehard Mets fan, the idea of David Wright with the Philadelphia Phillies would be enough to give you a mild stroke, but if the package were right for the Mets, it would make sense. Here's why.

The Mets and Phillies have a long history of trading with each other. Names like Lenny Dykstra and Juan Samuel are just a couple of players in a long line of former Mets who were Phillies too.

It's no secret that Wright would thrive in their park, and they need an answer at third base. Placido Palanco is not a long-term solution. What would the Phillies offer that could possibly make it worth trading in the Mets' own division to a heated rival?

For starters, let's take a look at Dominic Brown. He's a young outfielder with potential to be a solid power hitter. If that's not enough to blow Sandy Alderson's skirt up, then the Phillies can add Vance Worley.

Worley is only 25 and in his first full season posted an 11-3 record with a 3.01 ERA. If the Phillies are not willing to part with him (and understandably so), they could add Kyle Kendrick to the deal.

Kendrick is a little older at the age of 27, but with that age difference comes experience. He was 8-6 with a 3.22 ERA in 34 games, serving as a starter and a long reliever. That's a part the Mets could use to replace Chris Capuano.

The Phillies have the pieces and are interested; the question is would the Mets entertain it?

Offer to the Mets

David Wright for Dominic Brown and Vance Worley or Kyle Kendrick

Why it's good for the Mets

It would relieve them of some payroll and give them a starting pitcher and the coveted young outfielder they need.

Why it's good for the Phillies

It would give them a long-term option at third base they haven't had since Scott Rolen and a bat in the order to protect Ryan Howard.

No. 7: Toronto Blue Jays

If the New York Mets are interested in trading David Wright, they would do better to trade him out of the NL. A team like the Toronto Blue Jays makes a perfect fit. They are competitive and need one player to push them past the Yankees, Red Sox and Rays in the dreadfully tough AL East.

They need a bat to help protect Jose Bautista in that order. They need a second baseman and a third baseman. The acquisition of Wright could help slide Brett Lawrie over to second, thereby filling both needs.

The move makes sense for the Blue Jays, but what about the Mets? It depends on what they get in return. If the Blue Jays are willing to part with Kyle Drabek, this deal could be a possibility.

Drabek was the corner piece to the Roy Halladay deal that sent him to Philly. Since being a member of the Blue Jays organization, Drabek has struggled. He posted a 7.44 ERA in Triple-A last season. He does still have a tremendous upside to him.

Is that enough to land David Wright, though? Not really. We're talking about a franchise player with awards. The Blue Jays would have to add a player like Carlos Perez. Perez is a young catcher with great potential.

The Mets need a catcher. It's no secret the Mets are less than thrilled with the performance of Josh Thole, and they really don't have depth here. The combination of these two young prospects would be too much for the Mets to say no to.

Offer to the Mets

David Wright for Kyle Drabek and Carlos Perez

Why it's good for the Mets

The Mets add some much-needed depth at the catcher position. Drabek adds his talents to a solid, young rotation coming to Queens in the near future (Harvey, Wheeler, Drabek, Niese and Gee or Familia).

Why it's good for the Blue Jays

They get a power hitter with experience and a true leader. They fill multiple needs in one move. The addition of Wright gives them a veteran presence to balance the youth in that clubhouse and makes them even more competitive in the AL East.

No. 6: Pittsburgh Pirates

If the New York Mets don't mind trading David Wright within their league, they could take a look at the Pittsburgh Pirates. The Pirates are facing a resurgence of youth, and they need an experienced bat to push them over teams like St. Louis and Milwaukee.

They have one very important piece they are suddenly willing to hear offers on. That piece is Andrew McCutchen. Like the Mets with Wright, all reports on this matter state that the Pirates have to be "blown away" by an offer. He's the Pirates' version of David Wright—nearly untouchable.

Imagine a younger version of Carlos Beltran but healthier, and one that plays with high energy. That's McCutchen. He hits for power (23 home runs last year), AVG (.279 career batting AVG) and can steal bases (23 last year). He's the centerfielder the Mets have been wanting. With him, they can either part ways with Angel Pagan or relegate him to the spot he should be in—a fourth outfielder.

The key is whether or not either team can offer their star straight up. If not, the Mets could add a player like Mike Pelfrey (who they were going to trade for Huston Street earlier last week until the deal fell apart).

The Pirates could add one of their young pitchers. Perhaps, Bryan Morris (24), a lefty on their 40-man roster but with no real experience or Kyle McPherson, another 24-year-old in the same boat as Morris but right-handed. Both would be enticing for the Mets. Both sides would benefit from this move.

Offer to the Mets

David Wright and Mike Pelfrey for Andrew McCutchen and Kyle McPherson or Bryan Morris

Why it's good for the Mets

This deal actually accomplishes four things. One, it helps with payroll. Two, it rids them of the head case that is Mike Pelfrey. Three, they add that CF they have needed since Beltran moved to right and then was eventually traded. Fourth, they add youth to their pitching depth.  

Why it's good for the Pirates

This moves gives Pittsburgh a veteran in the clubhouse, a leader on the field and a big bat in their lineup. It also solidifies their third-base situation, which is considered weak at best.

No. 5: Miami Marlins

The New York Mets have partnered with the Marlins in a trade before. It was the Marlins, then the Florida Marlins, that traded Mike Piazza to the Mets for a coveted Mets' player named Preston Wilson, nephew of Mookie Wilson.

Since then, these two teams have had a bad history on the field. The Marlins eliminated the Mets from contention on the last day of the season in 2007. Many blamed on-field antics by Jose Reyes for motivating the Marlins at the time, but that hasn't stopped them from pursuing Reyes now that he's on the market.

The new-look Miami Marlins are a team ready to embrace change and better themselves every way they can. If they add Jose Reyes, then current shortstop Hanley Ramirez will not be happy, despite being best friend to Reyes and godfather of Reyes' child.

Ramirez has been rumored to not be interested in moving from his shortstop position. This disgruntled attitude could force the Marlins' hand to a trade. They would look to who needs a shortstop and who has a big piece to offer for the talents of Ramirez.

The answer to both of those questions is the Mets. Would the Mets take Ramirez straight up? I believe they would not. But they may not be interested in offering more than Wright. They may have to in order to make this deal happen.

If the Marlins offered Hanley Ramirez with an unproven and young pitcher like Omar Poveda, they would have to throw another player into the deal. It's doubtful the Marlins would take someone like Pelfrey off the Mets, but they may be interested in Angel Pagan.

That would leave a gap in centerfield for the Mets though. But it's one they could fill with a player like Fernando Martinez as one possible option. Either way, it would take more than just a one for one deal to get this done. It may be worth it for the Mets, though, if the Marlins sign Jose Reyes.

Offer to the Mets

David Wright and Angel Pagan for Hanley Ramirez and Omar Poveda

Why it's good for the Mets

This move would solidify the shortstop position for the Mets in the wake of the loss of Jose Reyes. It also would help them get younger pitching. 

Why it's good for the Marlins

The Marlins would add a third baseman they need and want. They also would help make Reyes comfortable as they would have a familiar face in Miami in Wright. The move adds depth to that already potent lineup.

No. 4: Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim

The Los Angeles Angels are a team trying to get back into the playoffs. There's just one problem. The Texas Rangers have taken their division two years in a row, and Nolan Ryan's team is not planning on relinquishing that grip anytime soon.

The Angels need some help on offense to overcome them. They are looking into Albert Pujols and Prince Fielder, like everyone else. They have a terrific, young first baseman in Mark Trumbo. If they sign either of those players, someone would have to play DH or Trumbo would have to move to another position.

Another need they have is at third base. This is where the New York Mets come in. It had previously been reported by Joel Sherman of the New York Post that the Mets were looking into the Angels roster when they began considering trading David Wright.

Some players they may be considering would be 24-year-old outfield prospect Peter Bourjos, 23-year-old pitcher Garrett Richards or 20-year-old CF Mike Trout. The Mets need a center fielder, and they need pitching.

All of these players would be a good move, but it would take multiple players for someone of the caliber of Wright. Unless they throw in a player like Ervin Santana, which isn't likely, the Angels will have to empty the cupboard for him. It would fill needs for both teams. 

Offer to the Mets

David Wright for Mike Trout (and/or Peter Bourjas) and Garrett Richards

Why it's good for the Mets

The Mets would benefit from a young outfielder and a few young pitchers in their stable. They would be relieved of some payroll burden as well.

Why it's good for the Angels

The Angels would have a big bat in the heart of their lineup. They would have a veteran presence for Mark Trumbo and the other young players they have entering into the majors in the next few years.

No. 3: Arizona Diamondbacks

The Arizona Diamondbacks are close to being a legitimate contender. They overcame the San Francisco Giants and made the playoffs. They were eliminated in the first round by the Milwaukee Brewers, but they have the young pitching and young offense to extend their championship window for a number of years.

They need a veteran to help players like Justin Upton as they continue to inch closer and closer toward the World Series. They would need a good package of players to acquire a man like David Wright.

Reports indicated that they were interested in him when the offseason began, therefore, they may have already been thinking of the details involved. One thing is for sure, they have youth and talent to offer.

They can add a player like Chris Owings. He's a shortstop and could be groomed to replace Jose Reyes if Ruben Tejada falters. They also have a few solid pitching prospects. Josh Collmenter (25) and Jarrod Parker (23) are both major-league ready.

This is the type of deal they would have to offer to get Wright. Multiple players for one All-Star.

Offer to the Mets

David Wright for Chris Owings and Josh Collmenter (and possibly Jarrod Parker) 

Why it's good for the Mets

The Mets would obtain a young replacement for the imminent departure of Jose Reyes. They also add pitching depth while getting payroll relief.

Why it's good for the Diamondbacks

Arizona gets a strong bat and a stronger clubhouse presence for their young team. Wright would be an immediate impact and example for a group of players on the verge of major success.

No. 2: San Francisco Giants

The San Francisco Giants dropped out of contention late last season and lost the division to the Arizona Diamondbacks. That's not a trend they want to reoccur. One major reason they struggled late was the offense failed to support to premiere pitching rotation they have.

The Giants traded for Carlos Beltran and gave a hefty price for his services for just a few months. He was injured, and the New York Mets came out the better in the deal. While the Giants attempt to re-sign Beltran to a multi-year deal, they still need offense.

They also need a third baseman. This is where the New York Mets and David Wright enter the picture. While the Giants have Pablo Sandoval, he would be better served at first base. His range at third is not very good in comparison to a player like David Wright.

They have Aubrey Huff at first, but he's an experienced corner outfielder so he can be shifted to one of those spots, especially if they can't re-sign Beltran. With all of this said, it's a good idea for the Giants to inquire about Wright. The major question would be who they can offer in return?

They still have several solid prospects in their system even after trading Zack Wheeler in July. Among them is catcher Hector Sanchez (22), outfielder Francisco Peguero (23), lefty pitcher Eric Surkamp (24) and righty pitcher Waldis Joaquin (24).

These prospects would not all be dealt in a trade for Wright, but the Mets could expect at least three of them for a player in a long-term deal like Wright is. The only reason the Mets failed to get more in the Beltran trade was the remaining time of his contract. Had he had another year or so left on it, the Mets could have easily had a much larger deal.

This move would help both teams, as it gives the Mets several needs filled and the Giants one big bat to support that pitching staff.

Offer to the Mets

David Wright for Hector Sanchez, Francisco Peguero and Eric Surkamp (and possibly Waldis Joaquin)

Why it's good for the Mets

The Mets would obtain an outfielder to add depth and youth to that position. They would acquire a catcher that has high upside. They obtain young pitching. All this while slashing payroll.

Why it's good for the Giants

The Giants would be able to add a major offensive weapon in the lineup to add to Sandoval and a healthy Buster Posey and possibly be reunited with Carlos Beltran. 

No. 1: Colorado Rockies

The Colorado Rockies are in a curious position. They finished in fourth place in their division. They are looking to get back to the playoffs and need a boost. They recently traded Ty Wiggington to the Phillies for a player to be named later.

The trade went partially unnoticed by fans, but it does raise questions. Wiggington carried the load at third base for the Rockies last year, starting 130 games there.

Ian Stewart was supposed to be the starter from the beginning of the season, but when injuries and struggles ensued, Wiggington took full advantage of his chances and eventually won the job.

Why would they trade Wiggington then? Do they believe in Stewart, or are they making room to make a move for a third baseman? It's doubtful they believe in the combination of Stewart and Kevin Kouzmanoff.

They most likely are looking elsewhere. In fact, they have made it clearly known that they are interested in the New York Mets third baseman David Wright.

They were reportedly the first team to inquire when the Mets placed him on waivers. They have a need at third obviously, and they want him to fill it. What could they possibly offer to get him from the Mets? They have a young (23) shortstop named Hector Gomez. He saw action in only two games but had two hits and a run scored.

Also, there's lefty pitcher Drew Pomeranz (23). He posted a 2-1 record with a 5.40 ERA in his first major league games of his career. He did strike out 13 batters in 18.1 innings.

Then there's outfielder Charlie Blackmon (25). Blackmon is currently on the 60-day DL, but if he returns healthy, he has potential to hit for power and steal bases. He can also serve as a center fielder.

This is a solid group of prospects that would give the Mets a high return for the services of David Wright. If they would pull the trigger would be the only question.

Offer to the Mets

David Wright for Hector Gomez, Drew Pomeranz and Charlie Blackmon

Why it's good for the Mets

The Mets would slash payroll and add depth to their pitching staff. They also would have outfield depth from this deal. They could add a shortstop to potentially replace Jose Reyes or even Ruben Tejada, should he not pan out.

Why it's good for the Rockies

The Rockies acquire a solid third baseman in a great hitters' park. He would be lethal in that division and help the Rockies soar to the top of it. He would also add another veteran leader to go with Todd Helton and Troy Tulowitzki.