How will the Cespedes signing impact the Mets moving forward?

The Mets did not hesitate to bring Cespedes back to Queens

On November 30, the New York Mets announced that they had retained outfielder Yoenis Cespedes on a four-year, $110 million contract. Cespedes, now 31, entered the off-season as the top available player in this winter's free agent class. While some believed that he would return to the Big Apple, little thought that he would sign this early in the off-season. Thus, the Mets now benefit moving forward as they know that the All-Star is locked up for the foreseeable future. While Cespedes is just one player, his return seemingly changed the course of action for the Mets front office that was previously looking for alternative options.

With the Winter Meetings rapidly approaching, New York will have tough decisions to make. In this article, we will look at two areas that the Mets need to address in the coming months. 

1. Too Many Outfielders?

Bruce (left), Granderson (middle) or Conforto (right) could be on the move

-  Yoenis Cespedes will be the team's starting left fielder, and with only one true center fielder on the roster (Juan Lagares), the Mets will need to make a decision regarding the other players. At first glance, it appears that youngster Michael Conforto is staying put, especially since he is coming off a dreadful 2016 campaign. The two veterans, Curtis Granderson and Jay Bruce, are both up for grabs, and the Mets are actively listening to offers at this moment in time. 

Bruce is coming off a Jekyll and Hyde season where he massively declined after arriving to Queens this past July. His $13 million option was recently picked up by the club, mostly as an insurance policy if Cespedes was unable to return, but the former Red is now considered expendable. On the other side, Granderson is coming off a unique season in which he hit 30 home runs with just 59 runs-batted-in. He has just $15 million remaining on his contract, and entering an age-36 season, the Mets may try to cash in on him while they still can. Despite being a fan favorite, reports have been circulating recently over Granderson's sudden availability on the open market. As a key piece to the clubhouse, losing such a contributor may be a tough pill to swallow for some players and fans, but it could be the best choice for the organization moving forward. 

2. Bullpen Questions

- The Mets bullpen could need some major work, as All-Star closer Jeurys Familia is likely facing a lengthy suspension following a domestic violence arrest. In the event that Familia is sidelined, Addison Reed would be the next-in-line to close games. As a former closer and terrific setup man for the Mets over the past season and a half, Reed should be more than capable of plugging the hole. 

Blevins may find a new home for 2017

The issue lies within the rest of the personnel. Hansel Robles showed promise at times and will be a part of the 2017 squad, but his ability to transition to a more meaningful role still remains in question. Players like Josh Edgin, Erik Goeddel and Josh Smoker also figure to be part of the team's future, but all three are not nearly experienced enough to inspire any level of confidence. Mid-season acquisition Fernando Salas performed very well in his short tenure with New York, but is currently a free agent. While it seems likely that the Mets will at least pursue a return, Salas will be a sought out commodity for several teams. Perhaps even more impactful than Salas, Jerry Blevins hit the open market this winter as well. The southpaw has combined for a 2.49 ERA in 80 games for the Mets, and it is fair to say that he is the top left-handed reliever on the market right now. It is imperative that the Mets lock up Blevins as soon as possible to help patch up a leaking bullpen.