Has anyone considered Daniel Murphy of the NYM as a potential trade target?

 

It seems as though the Mets aren't intent on paying for him this season. I see some real benefits to this trade.

 

1. He's on the right side of 30, (29 starting next season).

2. He has great versatility - 3B, 2B, 1B and OF.

3. He hits for a decent average - around .290 as a regular starter.

4. He is still relatively cheap.

5. Could platoon with Plouffe at 3B (or be traded for one another).

6. Insurance against a Dozier collapse.

7. Left handed bat with a little pop.

8. Fill a hole in the OF once/if the kids arrive (Sano, Rosario).

9. Good durability, averages 145+ games a year since 2009.

10. Stole 23 bases (caught 3 times) last year.

 

I could go on. I actually think this is a better idea after I started typing it up. There are negatives for sure but I think this would be a great upgrade to an increasingly younger team.

 

I compared his stats to Eddie Rosario's, both over 4 minor league seasons and while Rosario edges Murphy a few ticks in most offensive categories, Murphy is already a proven commodity in the Major Leagues. Could also free up Rosario for a great trade for pitching.

 

Stats here: http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/murphda08.shtml

I like it.

 

I'm gonna give TR a call and suggest it.

If Murphy is being given away for a borderline top 30 prospect then this would be great. 4M or so in arb and a 2nd arb year is a good value even if he's nothing more than the LH part of a 3B or OF platoon.

 

The Twins definitely need to add some OF veteran OF depth to this team because I don't have that much confidence in the current roster.

Not to mention his brother (Jonathan/CF) is in the Twins minor league system.

Not to mention his brother (Jonathan/CF) is in the Twins minor league system.

 

This... ha!! Daniel has played mainly second base... he can play a few places. I don't know that I'd give up much to get him, but isn't bad.

It looks like Murphy has played almost exclusively at first and second, probably the two positions that the Twins really don't need reinforcements. If they had a Tony Phillips type who could legitimately start at second, third, and a corner outfield spot, that could be very helpful, especially with RH hitters Plouffe and Dozier having pretty severe platoon splits.

The Twins don't need another poor defender. The defense in the outfield, third base and catcher will be among the worst in the league.