5 Carlos Beltran Trades That Could Help New York Mets Become Contenders

Picture this scene; it’s late July, and the Mets are sitting in last place with no hope of reversing their fortunes.  In other words, it’s become yet another lost summer in Queens.

Fortunately for the Mets, patrolling Center Field is a healthy and all-star caliber slugger named Carlos Beltran.  His hefty salary has become an albatross to the Mets’ payroll, and Sandy Alderson is actively shopping him, gauging the interest level of current playoff contenders.

Who offers the best package?  What exactly would the Mets seek in return for Beltran?

Here are five possible trade scenarios that will benefit contending teams in the short term, as well as the Mets and their commitment to the future.  

Begin Slideshow