The New York Mets are expected to be big players in MLB’s hot stove season over the next few months. The Mets’ front office faces several key decisions regarding free agents, including first baseman Pete Alonso, reliever Edwin Diaz (if he doesn’t accept the qualifying offer), and outfielder Cedric Mullins.
There is a small chance the Mets will retain Cedric Mullins, as his performance after being traded from the Orioles was disappointing, and New York ultimately missed the playoffs. Now, in a fresh offseason, General Manager David Stearns has an opportunity to make things right by pulling off more meaningful trades.
### Mets-Angels Trade Idea Sends Taylor Ward to New York
It was recently reported that the Los Angeles Angels may have a pair of outfielders they are willing to trade. Should the Mets consider making a big splash for one of them?
Jon Morosi of MLB Network revealed that the Angels may be open to trading both star outfielders, Jo Adell and Taylor Ward. Given the Angels’ need to rebuild under first-year manager Kurt Suzuki, it makes sense for them to offload these sluggers.
The New York Mets could certainly be interested suitors if they decide to pursue either Jo Adell or Taylor Ward. In this trade idea, the Mets would acquire Taylor Ward, who smashed 36 home runs this past season and drove in 103 runs.
### Why Taylor Ward?
The 31-year-old Ward isn’t a free agent until 2027. Having spent all eight seasons of his career with the Angels, Ward has really found his power stroke recently. Since 2022, he has hit 98 home runs and posted an average OPS+ of 116 across those seasons. If there is ever a time for the Angels to move on from Ward, it’s now.
### Why Are the Mets a Good Fit?
The Mets are a good fit for several reasons. First, they need a center fielder. Although Taylor Ward primarily plays left field rather than center, New York could adjust their outfield alignment to accommodate him.
Recalling the 2025 trade deadline, the Mets parted with a handful of promising prospects to bolster their roster. Acquiring Ward would likely cost them one of their young MLB-ready arms, such as Brandon Sproat or Jonah Tong. However, adding Ward would significantly strengthen the Mets’ outfield and pair Juan Soto with another consistent power hitter capable of hitting 25+ home runs annually.
### Looking Ahead
The Angels finished the 2025 season with a 72-90 record, placing last in the American League West. As the offseason unfolds, expect trade rumors involving Taylor Ward and Jo Adell to intensify among MLB contenders.
Stay tuned for more MLB news and updates throughout the offseason.
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