New York Mets: Todd Frazier signing could be an issue in 2019

The New York Mets recently inked Todd Frazier to a two year contract which could cause a multitude of problems in 2019. 

Picture this: Sandy Alderson is holding his first press conference before the start of the 2019 offseason. The New York Mets general manager is fielding questions from reporters when he gets asked if the Mets plan to pursue Manny or Machado or Josh Donaldson in free agency. He smiles, and calmly states that the Mets have Todd Frazier penciled in at third base for 2019.

If the Brandon Nimmo jokes were funny after Giancarlo Stanton was traded to the Yankees, then it’s hard to imagine how comical it will be if one of Machado or Donaldson signs with a division rival.

This isn’t meant to be a knock against Frazier who is a fine player in his own right. However, Machado and Donaldson are amongst the game’s elite, something Frazier simply cannot boast. If the Mets are going to use Frazier’s presence as an excuse to mask their financial deficiencies, then it’s going to infuriate a loyal fan base that deserves better. Sadly enough, would it really come as a surprise?

If ownership had the nerve to flat out admit that it did not have the fiscal wherewithal to offer a competitive deal, then while frustrating, it’s at least transparent. Instead, they likely will use Alderson to take the heat and make a few more cheap jokes just like they’ve coordinated since 2010.

Whether the Mets have their eyes set on the World Series in 2019 or are stuck in a situation similar to the one after a disappointing 90 loss season– there’s no denying that one of the aforementioned third baseman drastically improves the outlook of the franchise. Frazier’s inexpensive contract should give him decent trade value while his ability to play first base shouldn’t restrict the Mets from pursuing a superior player.

Just because the Mets have Frazier, doesn’t mean they should be content with their current situation. Their cross town rivals found themselves in very similar circumstances–their outfield was in no need of any upgrades with Aaron Judge, Brett Gardner, Aaron Hicks, Jacoby Ellsbury and Clint Frazier all in the mix–but they found an opportunity to land an elite player and pounced on it.

Too long have condescending comments and snide jokes masked excuses for failing to improve the club. The offseason of 2019 features to be one of the most star studded free agent classes in recent memory and if the Mets aren’t planning on being active, it better not be because they are content with the roster currently assembled.