Report: Mets interested in JT Realmuto to fill catching void

The New York Mets are dealing with an injury-induced catcher crisis, and could be forced into making a big trade to fix it.

Regular starter Travis d’Arnaud needs Tommy John surgery, while his backup, Kevin Plawecki, just landed on the disabled list with a broken hand. That has left the Mets in a very difficult spot.

According to Mike Puma of the New York Post, the Mets have reached out to the Miami Marlins regarding the availability of their catcher J.T. Realmuto.

The Mets have spoken to the Marlins about J.T. Realmuto. It would take a haul to land him, plus Realmuto has not played yet this season because of a back contusion. That said, the Marlins are rebuilding so maybe there is common ground that can be found.

— Mike Puma (@NYPost_Mets) April 13, 2018

As Puma alludes to, this would not be a minor deal. Realmuto is a career .280 hitter with enough power to hit 15 to 20 home runs. He reportedly told the Marlins he wanted out during their offseason firesale, but nothing obviously came of it — likely because it will take a major prospect package to pry him away from Miami.