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Pittsburgh Pirates: Potential Trade Fits for Ben Gamel

By Marty Leap

DENVER, COLORADO - JULY 16: Ben Gamel #18 of the Pittsburgh Pirates bats against the Colorado Rockies in the top of the first inning at Coors Field on July 16, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
DENVER, COLORADO - JULY 16: Ben Gamel #18 of the Pittsburgh Pirates bats against the Colorado Rockies in the top of the first inning at Coors Field on July 16, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /
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Jun 18, 2022; New York City, New York, USA; New York Mets relief pitcher Drew Smith (62) follows through on a pitch against the Miami Marlins during the seventh inning at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Jessica Alcheh-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 18, 2022; New York City, New York, USA; New York Mets relief pitcher Drew Smith (62) follows through on a pitch against the Miami Marlins during the seventh inning at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Jessica Alcheh-USA TODAY Sports /

New York Mets

While the New York Mets will be setting their sights higher than Gamel, such as Juan Soto, they could potentially circle back to Gamel if they miss out on other targets. The Mets are likely to remain in the market for outfield help until they find said help.

Gamel could split time in left field with Mark Canha, getting starts against right-handed pitching. It would also allow the Mets to have Jeff McNeil focus solely on playing second base instead of bouncing around to the outfield.

Furthermore, Gamel would add much needed outfield depth for the Mets. If nothing else, offensively, Gamel would be a huge upgrade over Travis Jankowski as a fourth outfielder. Not to mention Gamel’s defensive value, postseason experience and positive clubhouse presence.

A player who the Pittsburgh Pirates could target from the Mets in return for Gamel is reliever Drew Smith. As Cherington continues to look to rebuild the Pirate bullpen moving forward, Smith would fit the bill coming with three years of team control beyond this season. This season the righty has pitched to the tune of a 3.51 ERA, 4.39 FIP, 8.4% walk rate, 28.1% strikeout rate and a 1.76 HR/9 in 41.0 innings pitched. All strong numbers outside of his home run rate, which is something that can be worked on.

Smith could join David Bednar (if he’s not traded), Wil Crowe, Colin Holderman, Yerry De Los Santos, and Duane Underwood Jr. as a good bullpen core to build around in 2023 and beyond.

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