NY Mets Trade David Robertson: Evaluating the Timing and Return
The New York Mets made a significant move at the trade deadline, sending veteran reliever David Robertson to the Miami Marlins. As a rental reliever, the return in the trade might be reasonable, but the timing and the choice of prospects have raised some eyebrows among Mets fans. In this blog, we’ll dive into the details of the trade, assess the prospects received, and discuss the Mets’ historical track record in dealing with minor league talent.
The Mets’ Decision to Trade Robertson:
David Robertson was one of the most apparent trade candidates on the Mets’ roster, with a strong market for bullpen help among contenders. The Mets decided to move him, and the Marlins, a division rival, emerged as the trading partner. The decision to trade Robertson makes sense from a strategic standpoint, but the return and timing have left fans questioning the move.
Analyzing the Return: Marco Vargas and Ronald Hernandez:
In exchange for David Robertson, the Mets acquired infielder Marco Vargas and catcher Ronald Hernandez from the Marlins. Both prospects were previously ranked 18th and 21st in the Marlins’ system, respectively. As teenage prospects, they may have potential, but they are far from MLB-ready. For a rental reliever, this return might be acceptable, but the positions of the prospects are raising concerns among Mets fans.
The Need for Pitching Prospects:
While Vargas and Hernandez could become something special, Mets fans are rightfully questioning the lack of pitching prospects in the return. With the team’s history of missed evaluations when it comes to minor league talent, there’s a sense of skepticism about the potential of these teenage prospects. Swapping Hernandez for a promising young arm could have made the trade more balanced and appealing to fans.
Mets’ Track Record in Evaluating Minor League Talent:
The Mets’ recent history of trades involving minor leaguers has been a mixed bag. Some trades, such as the acquisition of Noah Syndergaard and Travis d’Arnaud for R.A. Dickey, have paid off handsomely. However, there have been misses, too, with the team parting ways with top 100 prospects like Endy Rodriguez and Pete Crow-Armstrong in other deals. This inconsistency in identifying and developing young talent has become a concern for the franchise.
Looking Ahead:
Mets fans are now left to hope that Vargas and Hernandez develop into notable prospects and contribute to the team’s future success. However, the return in the Robertson trade feels all too familiar with other deals involving minor leaguers. The front office’s ability to evaluate and nurture young talent remains a critical factor in the team’s long-term success.
While the trade of David Robertson was a necessary move for the Mets, the return and timing have sparked discussions among fans. Vargas and Hernandez have potential, but their positions may not fully address the Mets’ needs. As the trade deadline unfolds, fans will closely watch the performances of the acquired prospects and compare them to other reliever deals to assess the trade’s overall impact. Only time will tell if this trade will be a win for the Mets or a missed opportunity to bolster their pitching prospects.
