Heyman: Mets balk at asking price for J.Upton
The Mets and Padres are currently at an impasse in talks involving star San Diego outfielder Justin Upton after the Padres asked for at least one high-end prospect back, and possibly two.
The Mets walked away after a suggestion that included a big prospect or two and no payment toward Upton’s $14.5-million salary, though it isn’t known whether they could resume talks at some point.
The Mets’ offense has been close to disastrous in recent weeks, so they continue to talk about other available hitters, such as: Gerardo Parra and possibly Carlos Gomez of the Brewers; Jay Bruce and Marlon Byrd, a former Met, of the Reds; Will Venable, also of the Padres; plus others.
The Mets and Orioles were identified early as interested parties in Upton talks, while the Angels, Royals and Blue Jays are also surveying the outfield market (though Toronto’s focus is pitching, particularly starters).
Upton is the top outfielder available, though since he’s a rental, his trade value is a bit limited. He makes $14.5 million this year.
It isn’t certain exactly which prospects the Padres mentioned, but not counting the Mets’ big young pitchers, who obviously aren’t on the table, especially for a rental, the Mets’ top two prospects are outfielder Michael Conforto, who was just called up, and shortstop Amed Rosario, though they have several other nice prospects as well, including outfielder Brandon Nimmo.
The Mets added third baseman Juan Uribe and utilityman Kelly Johnson in a trade from Atlanta but continue to try to upgrade the offense. Uribe will take over the starting job at third, at least until David Wright returns.
The Padres are known to be seeking quality over quantity in their sale. They also have Ian Kennedy as a free agent after the year in addition to Upton and Venable (Joaquin Benoit has an option), and are seen as willing to at least discusss several more stars, including starter James Shields, closer Craig Kimbrel and others.
Upton has 15 home runs, 17 stolen bases and 49 RBI to go with a .248 batting average.
The Mets have balked at the asking price for All-Star Justin Upton. (USATSI)
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