So, are the Mets going to make Scott Boras a happy man in 2010 by turning their attention from Jason Bay and instead focusing on Matt Holliday? Well there are three things we can say for certain. One, the Mets need a leftfielder. Two, Scott Boras really likes money. Three, nothing runs up the price like competition.
Currently the Mets are in a holding pattern with Jason Bay (they have 4 years at like 16 million on the table.) The Cards are in a holding pattern with Matt Holliday (they have 5 years at around 18 million on the table.) Bay hits more homeruns (averaging 33 to Holiday’s 24). Holiday hits for a better average and has a better ops (career .318 and .933 compared to .280 and .896.) Holiday is perceived to be the better fielder by all but the Mets. The Mets went after Bay supposedly because they like his athleticism and thought he’d come easier.
Well it’s been December now and still no Bay. And as much as I don’t want to help Scott Boras get any richer I am starting to think the Mets may want to toss their hats (well actually their money) in Matt Holliday bidding ring. Maybe offer 5 years at 20 million a year with an option for a sixth? Now why offer Holliday more than Bay? For one thing, Bay toyed with the Mets long enough. For another, Holliday is a couple years younger than Bay and I like his numbers and fielding more. If nothing else maybe the offer to Holliday will give Bay the kick in the behind he needs to figure out the Mets have the best offer on the table for him.
Basically the Mets need a leftfielder. Either of these two would be a nice fit. I would be happy with either especially if the Mets don’t have to beg. (Even if it does make Scott Boras richer. You take the good with the not so good.)
