As the MLB trade deadline nears, the Mets are still attempting to trade for a center fielder, reports SNY MLB Insider Andy Martino.
Among the options are Luis Robert Jr. of the White Sox and Cedric Mullins of the Orioles.
Harrison Bader, another potential target, was dealt to the Phillies earlier on Thursday.
Per Martino, talk between the Mets and White Sox on Robert had "cooled" by Wednesday night, though Martino noted they could reignite before the deadline.
The Mets acquiring Mullins was labeled as a "maybe" by Martino.
Multiple reports Thursday afternoon suggested that the White Sox could be more likely to hold Robert than deal him — with Chicago not satisfied with the kind of offers they were getting.
In theory, the White Sox could keep Robert and then exercise the $20 million option for him after the season.
As far as Mullins, who is a pending free agent, it would be a shock if he isn't dealt by Baltimore.
Like Robert, Mullins has picked it up offensively lately, slashing .321/.333/.547 in 57 plate appearances over his last 16 games.
Both Robert and Mullins are elite defenders in center field, while bringing much more offensive upside than Tyrone Taylor.
If the Mets acquire a center fielder, it's fair to believe Jeff McNeil — who has been splitting time with Taylor in center — would return to second base on a more regular basis.
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