As the MLB offseason continues to unfold, the New York Mets are expected to be active on the trade market. After a somewhat disappointing 2024 campaign that saw the Mets fail to meet expectations, the team is looking to bounce back in 2025 with a more competitive roster. With significant financial resources at their disposal, the Mets have the potential to make a splash in the trade market and strengthen key areas of their lineup.
One trade idea that has been generating buzz in the baseball world involves the Mets acquiring an established All-Star who could provide immediate impact to their roster. The proposed deal would send a $14 million All-Star to New York in exchange for three players—two prospects and a major league contributor. This trade could have far-reaching implications for the Mets as they look to fine-tune their roster for the upcoming season.
### **The All-Star: Who is the Target?**
The player at the center of this trade rumor is none other than **Ketel Marte**, the dynamic second baseman and outfielder for the Arizona Diamondbacks. Marte, who is currently signed to a three-year, $42 million contract with an average annual value of $14 million, has been one of the most consistent and versatile players for the Diamondbacks over the past few seasons. A 2019 All-Star and Gold Glove Award finalist, Marte has proven to be a key piece in Arizona’s lineup, with a balanced skill set that includes power, speed, and an impressive ability to make contact.
In 2024, Marte played in 142 games and posted a solid .287/.347/.485 slash line with 25 home runs, 79 RBIs, and 13 stolen bases. His production has been consistent, and his ability to play multiple positions, including second base, center field, and left field, makes him an attractive trade target for a team like the Mets, who are looking to add flexibility to their roster.
Marte’s defense has also been a strong point, as he’s known for his excellent range, quick feet, and strong arm, particularly at second base. His ability to move around the diamond makes him a valuable asset in today’s game, where roster flexibility is key. The Mets are a team that could benefit greatly from Marte’s versatility, as they could slot him in at second base or use him in the outfield to give them additional depth in the lineup.
### **What the Mets Would Give Up**
While Marte is undoubtedly a valuable asset, the Diamondbacks would not part with their All-Star second baseman without receiving a meaningful return. The trade proposal that’s making the rounds would involve the Mets sending **three players** to Arizona in exchange for Marte. Here’s a breakdown of what the Mets could potentially give up:
#### 1. **J.D. Davis (3B/OF)**
J.D. Davis has been a reliable bat for the Mets over the past few seasons, but his future with the team has become uncertain as the Mets look to reshape their roster. Davis has shown the ability to hit for power, but his defense has been a question mark at both third base and in the outfield. Still, his offensive production—he posted a .258/.353/.465 line with 18 home runs and 68 RBIs in 2024—would be appealing to a team like Arizona, which has been looking to add more depth to its lineup.
Davis’ contract is also team-friendly, making him an attractive option for the Diamondbacks. He could provide Arizona with a solid right-handed bat in the middle of their order, whether at third base or as a platoon player in the outfield. Davis would likely be the headliner of the package the Mets send to Arizona, as his offensive upside could help the Diamondbacks immediately.
#### 2. **Ronny Mauricio (SS/2B)**
Ronny Mauricio, one of the Mets’ top prospects, is another potential piece in this trade. The 23-year-old infielder is ranked as one of the top 50 prospects in baseball, and his combination of power and speed makes him a tantalizing option for any team. In 2024, Mauricio split his time between Triple-A and the major leagues, hitting .290/.338/.489 with 21 home runs and 25 stolen bases.
While Mauricio has shown promise in the minors, his path to regular playing time in New York is blocked by Francisco Lindor at shortstop and Marte (or another veteran) at second base. The Mets may be willing to part with Mauricio, knowing that they have other options at shortstop and second base, while also addressing the need for a proven major league asset like Marte.
For the Diamondbacks, acquiring Mauricio would add a potential future star to their infield. His blend of speed and power would provide them with a potential long-term solution at second base or shortstop, depending on how they choose to utilize him. Arizona’s general manager would likely see Mauricio as a key building block for the future, and his high ceiling would make him a valuable piece in this potential trade.
#### 3. **David Peterson (SP)**
As part of this trade, the Mets could also send pitcher **David Peterson** to Arizona. The 28-year-old left-hander has struggled to establish himself as a consistent starter in New York, but he has shown flashes of potential. In 2024, Peterson posted a 4.58 ERA in 124 innings, but his inconsistency and lack of command have prevented him from becoming a reliable piece in the rotation.
For the Diamondbacks, Peterson could provide some depth to their rotation, where they have been searching for a reliable No. 4 or No. 5 starter. With a change of scenery, Peterson could potentially thrive in Arizona’s pitcher-friendly ballpark, and he could serve as a solid back-end option for their staff. The Mets may be willing to move Peterson to address other needs and to help balance out the deal for Marte.
### **Why This Trade Makes Sense for the Mets**
For the Mets, acquiring Ketel Marte would significantly improve their lineup and infield depth. Marte is a versatile player who can provide offensive stability while also contributing defensively. His ability to play second base or the outfield would allow the Mets to optimize their roster, especially if they decide to add another infielder or outfielder through free agency or another trade.
The Mets have been aggressive in recent seasons in their pursuit of postseason contention, and adding a proven All-Star like Marte would give them a much-needed boost. Marte could slot into the Mets’ lineup as a middle-of-the-order bat, providing additional protection for hitters like Pete Alonso and Francisco Lindor. He would also help solidify the Mets’ defense, especially if they continue to seek out a more consistent approach from their infield.
Furthermore, this trade would help the Mets balance out their roster. While they have some promising young players, the team needs more established veterans to take the pressure off the younger core. Marte’s leadership and experience would help stabilize the lineup and give the Mets more flexibility moving forward.
### **Why This Trade Makes Sense for the Diamondbacks**
For the Diamondbacks, dealing Marte would allow them to open up space for younger players and potentially acquire a high-upside prospect package. With the addition of J.D. Davis, Ronny Mauricio, and David Peterson, Arizona would be acquiring a blend of proven major league talent and promising young assets.
Davis would help their lineup immediately, while Mauricio could become a key player for them over the next few seasons. Peterson, though inconsistent, has the potential to be a reliable arm with a change of scenery. This trade would give Arizona the opportunity to retool its roster while also addressing some immediate needs, making it a smart move for the franchise’s future.
### **Conclusion: A Trade That Could Benefit Both Teams**
This proposed three-player trade that sends Ketel Marte to the New York Mets in exchange for J.D. Davis, Ronny Mauricio, and David Peterson makes sense for both sides. The Mets would get a versatile and productive All-Star in Marte, while the Diamondbacks would add some high-upside prospects and a solid major league contributor in Davis.
For New York, this move would bolster their lineup and add depth, while Arizona would gain a mix of young talent and veteran presence to help them contend in the future. With both teams looking to make strides in the upcoming seasons, this trade could be the kind of move that sets them up for success in 2025 and beyond.