Mets: 3 biggest culprits for blowing their NL East lead over the Braves
By Tim Boyle
2) Mets trade deadline moves didn’t help them enough in keeping the NL East lead
Daniel Vogelbach might be fun to watch but beyond that he’s not quite the offensive force they needed. Paired with Darin Ruf at the DH spot, the two have been only a bit better than anything else the club has tried at the spot.
The team also hasn’t gotten much out of Tyler Naquin who essentially assumed the role of fifth outfielder. Let’s not even talk about Mychal Givens. There’s a good chance he doesn’t even make it onto their postseason roster.
These were the big four acquisitions the Mets made at the trade deadline. All have been underwhelming for the ball club. Due to injuries and limited options, each has been handed a major role for the ball club.
The Mets needed at least one bigger player at the trade deadline. Unwilling to pay the price for someone like Willson Contreras, fans are left hoping these additions figure things out.
Many of the season-long questions the Mets have had remain. Their lack of a trusted lefty reliever, an offense that can go quiet in an instant, and very little production from the catcher spot remain an issue.
Correcting even just one of those areas in a better fashion may have helped them hold off the Braves a little stronger. Fortunately, the September schedule benefits them better than it will Atlanta.