The Cincinnati Reds have traded outfielder Jay Bruce to the New York Mets after a previous deal between the two teams fell apart.
Everybody thought that the New York Mets were getting Jay Bruce from the Cincinnati Reds until one of the Mets prospects’ medical records concerned the Reds. They were able to work around that and agree to a deal just before the trade deadline. The Reds will get Dilson Herrera and two other prospects from the Mets for Bruce.
Multiple reports says Dilson Herrera is going to the Reds. Brandon Nimmo hanging out with Mets hitting coaches... https://t.co/5Jy4x1hKwS
— Adam Rubin (@AdamRubinMedia) August 1, 2016
The Mets got their guy, though it did cost them a very excellent prospect in Herrera. Bruce should help the Mets overcome a recent injury to Yoenis Cespedes. Their outfield situation might be crowded, but at least Bruce is under team control through the 2017 season. That gives them insurance in case Cespedes opts out of his contract after this season.
Herrera was thought of as a future middle infielder. He has a .790 OPS this season in AAA with 13 home runs and 24 doubles. Herrera made some appearances last season with the Mets. He gives them a very nice replacement for Brandon Phillips. Herrera could also see some time at third base and perhaps the outfield.
The Mets had to pay a very steep price to get Bruce, but that extra year of control is worth it for them. Bruce is the kind of hitter who could have a huge impact for them down the stretch.
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