MLB Rumors: Mets Making Decisions On Their Trade Bait Trio

As the New York Mets have added to their lineup this offseason, we've reported on three players who have been on the trading block: JD Davis, Dominic Smith and Jeff McNeil. However, it seems the Mets are re-thinking all that. 

According to Mets Insider Andy Martino of SNY, the three players are now "expected to stay" in New York. In fact, earlier this week, new manager Buck Showalter said Jeff McNeil is his starting second baseman. “I don’t think it will be split. Mac will get the majority [of playing time] there.” He will also get some starts in left field, says the manager. "There are some people who think he plays pretty well out there."

Dominic Smith, who now has the DH role to add to his occasional outfield and 1st base at-bats, suffered through a very down 2021, but he's revealed he was playing hurt most of the season. If his 2020 is any more indicative of what he can do for the team (.316 avg., .993 OPS), they'd be wise to hang on to him. 

Davis' case is a little different. He has obvious deficiencies in the field, and DH is really the only logical playing spot for him, but with Robinson Cano also back this year from suspension, that DH spot is getting mighty crowded. 

Before the lockout, the Mets added infielder Eduardo Escobar to the 3B/2B mix, as well as starting outfielders Starling Marte and Mark Canha, leaving the likes of Smith, McNeil and even Davis with less playing time possibilities in the OF. 

Photo Credit: David Kohl-USA TODAY Sports