Michael Scannell - Why the Mets should trade Bobby Parnell and Daniel Murphy

I realize that there will be many people who disagree with this sentiment.  Murph has made strides defensively and Parnell has grown into the closer's role over the last few years, to the point where we can feel confident that he will shut the door on the opposition when he comes in.  I like both of these players and would like to hold onto them.  However, the Mets have too many holes to fill and have far too few assets to trade.  Teams in the hunt have use for these players and making deals with established players for young talent plays right into Alderson's wheelhouse.

With Parnell, he's really come a long way.  We also don't know who would take his place next year.  There are some interesting options internally and on the free agent market.  Sandy has shown a willingness to spend on free agent closers and there is nothing to imply he would not do so again.  If Parnell is traded, I could see Alderson bringing in someone like Jesse Crain if he can be added at a reasonable contract.  In dealing Parnell, I have no doubt thatSandy would return a player with promise and hype, someone to either fill in an organizational need or as part of a bigger trade package for an established hitter.  The Mets would be selling high on Parnell and could market him based not only on his talent but also on his years of control.  As much as I'd like to have him around, he just might be the Mets' most valuable trade piece.

I'm a little surprised at the positive attention Murphy has been getting lately.  Sure, he's no longera butcher in the field, but he's no Roberto Alomar with the glove.  At the plate (his strong suit), Murphy is hitting .270 and OPS'ing .700.  These are hardly the numbers of a player that is a untouchable piece of the core going forward.  Id rather the Mets see if they can squeeze a decent prospect out of a contending team and address 2B in the offseason.  I bet if given the chance, there are young players in the minors who could give the Mets a .700 OPS at 2B but don't carry the price tag of 'an established' MLB player.

As I mentioned, I wish the Mets had a plethora of young hitting talent so they could hold onto these two.  Unfortunately, they likely have the best trade value and will likely be easier to replace than some fans might like to admit.
hael Scannell -