3 NY Mets to trade with season hanging in the balance

Mets trade candidate No. 2: Dominic Leone

Speaking of relievers set to hit free agency, Mets arm Dominic Leone could serve as an intriguing trade piece this summer, too.

In 2023, Leone has struggled far more often than Robertson has and would command less value on the market. However, it’s becoming clear that he’s not a part of the club’s long-term future and the Mets should at least try to see what they can get in return.

This season marks Leone’s tenth MLB campaign, and the former Giant owns an ugly 5.02 ERA in 14.1 innings. Leone’s 4.01 ERA with San Francisco last year hinted at his impending decline, and his 2023 performance only confirms that fact.

The right-hander hasn’t seen a lot of action in a Mets uniform, usually only taking the mound in the later innings and not eating too many innings at a time.

Leone was signed to a cheap one-year deal for a reason, and it’s about time the Mets upgraded the bullpen with more firepower. Leone could hardly be called a bad offseason pickup since he did provide depth in bullpen, but if the Mets are serious about contending for the playoffs, they can do much, much better.