June was a nightmare month for the New York Mets, so they're currently hoping July brings better vibes.
After losing 12 of their final 15 games last month, the Mets are clinging to a 2 1/2-game lead over the first team out of the National League playoff picture. They've got a tough stretch of schedule ahead, and the all-important trade deadline is beginning to creep over the horizon.
If there's one thing the Mets absolutely need, it's a reliable left-handed relief pitcher. Since losing A.J. Minter for the season, the Mets have relied on one primary southpaw, José Castillo, who hasn't yet earned complete trust in high-leverage situations.
If Boston Red Sox closer Aroldis Chapman is available, the Mets should be all over him. And one Mets writer believes there's a decent chance the seven-time All-Star might indeed be attainable.
On Tuesday, Andrew Tredinnick of NorthJersey.com named Chapman as a prospective trade target for the Mets to address their bullpen this month.
"(The Mets need) to add a reliever with an ability to rise in the late innings. A lefty high-leverage option could be a bonus," Tredinnick wrote. "I wouldn't expect the Mets to be at the top of the market here for a high-end closer like Emmanuel Clase or Jhoan Duran, who could command a ransom, but there is a clear need for at least one more dependable option."
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"(The Red Sox's Aroldis Chapman presents) notable promise."
Chapman has a 1.32 ERA this season in 34 innings pitched, racking up 50 strikeouts. What's most impressive, though, is the fact that he's only walked 10 batters and hit none, meaning his WHIP sits at a minuscule 0.79--the lowest of his career.
With a $10.75 million salary, Chapman would be easy enough to add to the Mets' payroll. The question is whether the 42-44 Red Sox, who have had perhaps the most tumultuous season of any team in the game, will be willing to wave the white flag.
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