All Signs Point To Curtis Granderson

The first day of the GM Meetings in Orlando, FL really ramped up the rumor mill.  The Mets likely don't see themselves in the running for free agents Jacoby Ellsbury and Shin-Soo Choo.  Clearly the best outfielders on the market, they are simply at a level the Mets aren't yet prepared to dabble in.  Therefore they will be forced to lower their sights.

As was reported by SNY's Rich Coutino, the Mets have genuine interest in former Yankees slugger Curtis Granderson, who turned down his qualifying offer yesterday.  As a result, the Mets would have the part with their second round pick in the 2014 MLB Entry Draft.  Additionally the Mets may have to part with roughly $45 over the next three years.  A significant commitment for a man who will be 33 when the season begins?  Sure, but as I wrote both HERE and HERE, he is the best bargain to be had.

Granderson's age obviously represents a risk.  He will almost certainly enter his decline during his next contract, but hit 40+ home runs as recently as 2012.  Those of us who've questioned whether or not that that power would translate from Yankee Stadium to Citi Field might be able to breath a sigh of relief, as it turns out 35 of his 43 homes runs in 2012 would have left the yard in Citi as well.  Additionally the Mets should be concerned with his strike out rate and a batting average that has only risen above .250 once since 2008.  Despite those facts, Granderson has posted a combined WAR of 18.3 over that same time frame and would be without question the best power hitter in the line up.

Worth noting is that Granderson appears interested in joining the Mets as well.  The Mets have been in contact with his agent and have been less than shy about their interest.  He represents the best free agent outfielder available who can be had on a short term, somewhat thrifty contract.  While I don't want to say I expect him to be a Met by winters end, I do expect him to be the team's top target going forward.