Mets Interested in Maikel Franco

The Mets were linked to trades for both Nolan Arenado and Kris Bryant during the offseason, and MLB Network’s Jon Heyman reports that they are now setting their sights on Franco. There are apparently a few teams that are eyeing Franco, who posted an above-average 106 wRC+ in 60 games with the Royals last season. He has historically been excellent against left-handed pitchers, which could make him a valuable bench bat in 2021.

The Mets roster is already one of the deepest in the league, but they have a roster spot open following the injury to Jose Martinez. Manager Luis Rojas said that Martinez is dealing with continued stiffness in his right knee and that the situation is “not really encouraging.” Martinez was expected to be a primary pinch hitter against southpaws for the Mets, so Franco is a natural replacement.