Former New York Mets interim general manager Zack Scott recently reflected on the 2021 trade that sent top outfield prospect Pete Crow-Armstrong to the Chicago Cubs in exchange for Javier Báez and Trevor Williams. In a discussion on the “Baseball Isn’t Boring” podcast, Scott acknowledged that the deal was a calculated risk, and in hindsight, he recognized that the Mets might have overestimated their immediate needs.
Scott revealed that the Mets had engaged in discussions with the Cubs about a more substantial trade package that could have included additional major league players and prospects. However, the uncertainty surrounding ace pitcher Jacob deGrom’s health, who was later sidelined with elbow inflammation, led the Mets to opt for a less risky transaction. This decision ultimately resulted in the acquisition of Báez and Williams, with Crow-Armstrong being the primary prospect sent to Chicago.
The trade has been met with mixed reactions, as Crow-Armstrong has shown promise in the Cubs’ system, while Báez’s tenure with the Mets was short-lived and marked by inconsistent performance. Scott expressed understanding of the criticism and acknowledged that the Mets’ failure to make the postseason that year highlighted the potential miscalculation in the trade’s long-term impact.
Reflecting on the experience, Scott emphasized the importance of balancing short-term goals with long-term development and the value of cultivating homegrown talent. He noted that while the trade was made with the intention of bolstering the team’s immediate competitiveness, the unforeseen challenges underscored the complexities of such decisions.
In conclusion, Scott’s insights into the trade with the Cubs offer a candid perspective on the challenges faced by general managers in making high-stakes decisions that affect both the present and future of a franchise. His reflections serve as a reminder of the delicate balance between pursuing immediate success and investing in sustainable team development.
