Mets Weigh Corner Outfield Options After Nimmo Trade

Tucker, Bellinger, Kwan among potential replacements as Mets look to fill void left by Brandon Nimmo's departure

Apr. 10, 2026 at 2:37am

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A cubist-style painting depicting a fragmented baseball game, with players and the field broken down into sharp, geometric shapes in a variety of bright colors, conceptually representing the Mets' challenge in finding the right corner outfield solution.The Mets' search for a new corner outfield solution is a complex puzzle, requiring strategic maneuvering and a keen eye for talent.Oakland Today

The New York Mets find themselves in a difficult position after trading away Brandon Nimmo, who accounted for a significant portion of their corner outfield production last season. The team is now exploring various options to fill this gap, including internal candidates like Jeff McNeil and Carson Benge, as well as potential external acquisitions such as Kyle Tucker, Cody Bellinger, and Steven Kwan. The Mets must weigh the pros and cons of pursuing a high-priced superstar, a platoon strategy, or adding depth through bench and utility players.

Why it matters

The Mets' corner outfield situation is crucial, as Nimmo and Juan Soto combined for 93% of the team's corner outfield plate appearances in 2025. Finding a suitable replacement is essential to maintaining the Mets' offensive production and run prevention in those key positions.

The details

The Mets could shuffle their roster, moving Jeff McNeil from second base to left field and giving Carson Benge an everyday corner role, but neither move is considered a sure-fire solution. The team is also exploring external options, including elite everyday players like Kyle Tucker and Cody Bellinger, who would command long-term, high-dollar contracts. Steven Kwan of the Cleveland Guardians is another intriguing target, known for his contact-hitting and defensive prowess. Platoon options like Mike Yastrzemski and Miguel Andújar could provide cost-effective production, but come with inherent risks. Bench and utility players like Willi Castro, Mike Tauchman, and Tommy Pham offer versatility but lack the impact of everyday starters.

  • The Mets traded Brandon Nimmo in the 2025 offseason.
  • The 2026 MLB season is approaching, with teams needing to finalize their rosters.

The players

Brandon Nimmo

Former Mets outfielder who was traded away in the 2025 offseason.

Jeff McNeil

Mets infielder who could potentially shift to the outfield to help fill the void left by Nimmo's departure.

Carson Benge

Mets prospect who could be given an everyday corner outfield role.

Kyle Tucker

Houston Astros outfielder who is considered one of the top targets for the Mets to replace Nimmo.

Cody Bellinger

Free agent outfielder who is another high-profile option the Mets are considering.

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What they’re saying

“We must explore all options to ensure we have a strong corner outfield presence next season.”

— David Stearns, Mets Decision-Maker

What’s next

The Mets will need to make a decision on their corner outfield strategy before the start of the 2026 MLB season.

The takeaway

The Mets face a high-stakes decision in addressing their corner outfield needs, with each potential solution - pursuing a superstar, implementing a platoon, or adding depth - carrying its own set of risks and rewards. The team's choice will have a significant impact on their offensive production and defensive capabilities in the upcoming season.