METS LAND PROMISING OUTFIELDER
The New York Mets acquired outfielder Ben Johnson and pitcher Jon Adkins from the San Diego Padres for pitchers Heath Bell and Royce Ring.
What does it give the New York Mets
The Mets added to their outfield depth by acquiring the 25-year-old Johnson, who is also a bit of a dark horse for a starting role in the majors. He definitely has the defensive skills to play every day, while developing the power to hit 25 home runs in recent years. Johnson also adds a little speed to his game, so he could be a player to watch. It's not likely the Mets will head into camp with Johnson as their left-fielder, but he could surprise and get some playing time at some point in 2007. Adkins gives the Mets a decent right-handed middle reliever, but little more.
What does it give the San Diego Padres
The Padres are clearly looking at solidifying their bullpen depth with this trade. Bell is a 29-year-old righty who hasn't quite solidified his place in the majors but has often been almost unhittable in the minors, so he'll get a good, long look this spring. The 25-year-old Ring is a lefty who has had mixed results in his brief big-league career. His stuff has proven to be tough on left-handed hitters and the Padres are short on lefty relievers, so he's got a very good shot at making the bullpen as a situational southpaw.
Fantasy impact
