Mets officially sign Todd Frazier to a two-year, $17 million deal

(Updated from previous post on 2/6)

With doubts regarding David Wright’s future, the Mets knew they needed an alternative plan. It appears they have their answer in the form of Todd Frazier. The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal reported a few days ago that the team signed the New Jersey native to a two-year, $17 million deal. The Mets later confirmed the news on Wednesday, February 7th.

In a statement, GM Sandy Alderson stated:

“Todd has been one of the league’s top third basemen since he broke into the league in 2011. He has a track record of hitting for power as well as playing solid defense and will be a vital piece for us on and off the field as we look to return to the postseason.”

The former Yankee won’t be moving very far. He will also have a longer stint than his time with the Bronx Bombers. Traded to the Yankees by the White Sox late last season, Frazier hit a combined .213/.344/.428 with 27 HRs an 76 RBIs in 2017. Eleven of those home runs came as a Yankee. Frazier first started out as a 34th-overall pick in 2007 with the Reds before being traded to White Sox. Overall, the righty has a .245 average with 175 home runs and 498 RBIs.

Frazier’s durability was surely a factor in the signing. Averaging 154 games a year, the third baseman is a much-needed breath of fresh air after injuries have derailed the past few seasons for the Mets. His veteran leadership skills will also provide some stability to a mixed Mets clubhouse. He could be the true glue that holds the team together. Imagine Dominic Smith or prospect Peter Alonso learning to hone their craft by taking advice from The ToddFather.

The move for the Toms River-born Frazier is further proof Alderson is aggressively attempting to improve the team. An $8.5 million per year deal is something fans could definitely get behind. One factor in this deal may not entice the Flushing Faithful however:

httpss://twitter.com/JimBowdenGM/status/960692452846981120

This move officially opens the door for Asdrubal Cabrera to play second base. Over the past few months, Asdrubal has expressed interest in playing predominantly at second. Sandy was adamant that the team would not be looking into Mike Moustakas, so the search for a versatile defender was down to Eduardo Nunez, Neil Walker and Frazier. Sandy chose the latter to provide a power bat to the Mets’ potent lineup. As a result, Cabrera is free to do what he pleases.

One thing that is concerning about Frazier is his strikeout totals. With a cornucopia of strikeouts come a low average. Just like the fans, Sandy fully understands what he getting from Frazier. With an infield of Adrian Gonzalez, Amed Rosario, Cabrera and Frazier, the Mets now have a strong infield with questionable offensive capabilities. Whether the offense of these players are on par with their defensive ability is up in the air.

Sandy Alderson doesn’t appear to be done wheeling and dealing. The Mets are looking into relievers and maybe even a starting pitcher. With small deals like this, it seems like the Mets have a serviceable lineup on paper with the addition of Frazier and friends.

So, has anybody told Thumbs Down Guy of the deal?

httpss://twitter.com/Noahsyndergaard/status/960708597679235073