Zigging when everyone else zags has its risks. The New York Mets are living one unfortunate version of that right now, having shelled out for the highest payroll in MLB history.
It also has its advantages. With the standings, and thus the trade market, mostly gummed up, the Mets decided to move expensive veteran pitchers — first closer David Robertson to the Miami Marlins and now starter Max Scherzer to the Texas Rangers.
In return for a crushing fall from sky-high expectations, the Mets are hoping to accelerate their Los Angeles Dodgers-emulating goals, repeatedly invoked by multibillionaire team owner Steve Cohen.