WASHINGTON — The Mets continue to consider potential offensive upgrades, but can probably eliminate Ben Zobrist from the list.
According to an industry source, the Oakland utilityman is a “long shot” to join the Mets before the July 31 non-waiver trade deadline. But the Mets continue to focus on a bat that could potentially upgrade the outfield, with names such as Gerardo Parra and Will Venable in the conversation.
The Mets long have liked Zobrist because of his disciplined plate approach and versatility, but Oakland is expected to have several suitors for his services.
A club source dismissed a report indicating the Mets were unwilling to absorb the roughly $3 million remaining on Zobrist’s contract.