MLB Rumors: New York Mets Finding Ways To Stay Afloat Despite Outfield Woes

The New York Mets are in a bind right now, although they are trying to make do with the personnel they have. Following the season-ending injury to Robinson Cano (torn left hamstring), team manager Mickey Callaway is looking for able replacements at the position.

According to the New York Post, one player in consideration is Joe Panik. After getting cut by the San Francisco Giants, the 28-year-old veteran looms as a potential solution to fill up the void. If the Mets do pursue him, they will have to claim him as well as his $3.8 million deal or wait for him to clear waivers before getting released. This would make him eligible to be signed as a free agent.

Cano was placed on the injured list last Monday after an MRI exam revealed that the 36-year-old second baseman player suffered a torn left hamstring in the team's win against the Pittsburgh Pirates. It was the third time in less than three months that he has been placed on the injured list and there is no telling if he will remain there for the rest of the season, the New York Post said in another report.

It was a disappointing development for the eight-time All-Star who made some headway. He was 9-for-15 with a homer and four doubles in his past four games. Cano, who had been limited to 86 games due to previous injuries to his left quad and left calf, was batting .252 with 10 home runs and 32 RBIs.

Despite the hole the Mets have right now, Callaway has managed to do something with his rotation. They are coming off a big win over the Miami Marlins with the Mets using Jeff McNeil. He is one of several players that Callaway is trying out, the others being Luis Guillorme and Adeiny Hechavarria. Others in the outfield rotation include Juan Lagares and Aaron Altherr.

“Maybe one or two guys stands out and shows us they deserve more playing time. That’s the best solution I can think of at this point. I hope a couple guys get it done and we won’t lose a step,” said Callaway.

Moving forward and for as long as the Mets are winning, Callaway will have to keep a watchful eye on all his players and make sure he does not overwork them although this depends on game situations and who they are up against.

The Mets will be looking to finish off the sweep this Wednesday before taking a day off. They will be facing the Washington Nationals after that as their schedule starts getting more difficult.