Mariners And Mets Trade More Likely Now

Sep 26, 2013; New York, NY, USA; New York Mets starting pitcher Dillon Gee (35) delivers a pitch in the first inning of against the Milwaukee Brewers at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Noah K. Murray-USA TODAY Sports

For about a week or so now, the rumors have been flying involving the Seattle Mariners and New York Mets as possible trade partners. The interest surrounds Mariners infielder Nick Franklin, who was displaced at second base by the signing of Robinson Cano.

But Franklin is a natural shortstop and has been competing with incumbent M’s SS Brad Miller for the starting job. The Mets have expressed interest in acquiring a shortstop, unsure if Ruben Tejada would be good enough for them in 2014.

Now, this story pops up on Rising Apple. “Ruben Tejada Scratched With Tight Left Hamstring”.

Does this mean that the Mets will accelerate their timetable? Possibly.

"The 24 year old Tejada, who had an injury riddled and unproductive season in 2013 (which included a broken right fibula that ended his campaign), is currently slated to be the starting shortstop – basically by default."

So what could the Mariners net in return? According to William DeBoer of Rising Apple, in a NL East Preview piece for our site going live tomorrow:

"Look for the Mets to go after Mariners middle infielder Nick Franklin before Opening Day. Ruben Tejada is New York’s presumptive shortstop to start 2014, but Mets brass has been unimpressed in the past and may decide it’s time for an upgrade.Seattle is looking to add young starting pitching, something New York has a surplus of. Look for the Mets to offer prospect Jacob deGrom or mid-rotation starter Dillon Gee for Franklin soon."

Jacob deGrom has a 17-11 record in three minor league seasons with a 3.76 ERA and boasts a little better than a 3:1 K/BB ratio. He pitched two scoreless innings, allowing no hits, walking none and striking out four in his first spring game appearance.

Gee was 12-11 in 2013 with the Mets with a 3.62 ERA. He sported a 98 ERA+ and had a WAR of 2.2. He is under club control until 2017.

Something to watch today as the Mariners take the field with the Indians. It could very well be the last time we see Nick Franklin in a Mariners uniform.