New York Mets Ready To Deal Carlos Beltran

The New York Mets have had a surprising season so far. They are currently 45-42 in a season most considered would be a complete waste. But with new general manager Sandy Alderson in place and the franchise facing well-publicized money woes, the Mets will be looking to unload any big contracts they can as the trade deadline approaches. One of those contracts belongs to Carlos Beltran, and New York is ready to start listening to offers for the six-time All-Star.

Beltran is in the final season of a seven-year, $119 million contract and is making $18.5 million this season. His numbers have been OK so in 2011, as he’s hitting .285, with 13 home runs, 57 RBI, 26 doubles and an .880 OPS. For anyone with money to spend, he could be a good pickup.

One team with a need in the outfield and the ability to afford Beltran is the Philadelphia Phillies. They have been mentioned as a possible suitor and could also be looking at San Diego Padres left fielder Ryan Ludwick as an option. The New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox have also been mentioned as possible landing spots for Beltran, who would likely waive his no-trade clause to join a contender. The Texas Rangers have claimed they have no interest in Beltran or teammate Francisco Rodriguez, but if they get desperate they might be in a position to make a deal.

Whoever makes a move for Beltran would likely be looking at him as a rental since the 34-year-old will be a free agent after the season.

What’s clear at this point is that regardless of how well they play over the next few weeks, the Mets will be looking to dump contracts wherever possible. They are currently 9.5 games back of the Phillies in the National League East and currently sit 6.5 games back of Atlanta in the NL Wild Card race. They’re not completely out of the race, but regardless of that, they need to dump salary and that will start to do so as soon as possible.