Skip to content

Bruce: Mets 'would be crazy not to' trade me to improve organization

Noah K. Murray / USA TODAY Sports

Jay Bruce doesn't want the New York Mets to get shafted.

The Mets outfielder is no stranger to trade rumors, and with the July 31 trade deadline quickly approaching, Bruce is aware he could be on his way out of the Big Apple.

But while some players dread the thought of having to pack their bags - in Bruce's case, for the second time in three seasons - the 30-year-old is all for getting shipped off, provided it's for the benefit of the franchise.

“If they have the chance to make their organization better by trading me, they would be crazy not to do it,” Bruce told the Daily News' Kristie Ackert. "I know that they have to look out for their future here.

"I expect they will do that if they have the chance. I know what can happen."

Depending on the destination, however, the Mets may need Bruce's permission to trade him as he has a limited no-trade clause that would allow him to block a deal to the Boston Red Sox, Tampa Bay Rays, Toronto Blue Jays, New York Yankees, Arizona Diamondbacks, Miami Marlins, Oakland Athletics, Minnesota Twins.

But Bruce, who will enter free agency after the season, is ready to become a rental once again if that's what it comes down to.

"I came here as a hired gun," Bruce said. "I know what I am and what situation I am in. This is a business. Don't get me wrong, I love playing the game, I always will. But this is my job.

"I am a hired gun and I go where I am needed."

Daily Newsletter

Get the latest trending sports news daily in your inbox