With the July 31 no-waiver trade deadline just days away, we take a look at the latest news and rumors:
THE RUMOR: The Mets are closing in on a deal to acquire Athletics relief pitcher Tyler Clippard.
REPORTED BY: FOX Sports' Ken Rosenthal
TRADE RUMORS: Jonathan Papelbon | Justin Upton | David Price
THE DETAILS: The Mets are tops among several other teams, including the Nationals, who are vying to trade for the 30-year-old pitcher. As I wrote yesterday, Clippard likely to be traded today. Had mentioned Mets among final 3: http://t.co/kO9Xoqwkmq #Athletics
THIS SEASON: Clippard has been used more as a reliever than a setup man with the A's the season. He has a 1-3 record and 2.79 ERA in 38 2/3 innings and his 4.9 BB/9 ratio is the highest it's been since his 2009 season with the Nationals, and his 8.8 K/9 rate is the lowest of his career.
OUR TAKE: With relief pitcher Jeurys Familia struggling since the All-Star Break, Clippard would make for added insurance in case Familia falls apart completely. Otherwise, a Clippard-Familia one-two punch to seal games would be a nice weapon to have.
And If the Mets make it to the postseason, they will need setup help since Jenrry Mejia was banned for 80 games starting after the regular season due to PED use.