According to David Waldstein of the New York Times, he says “the Mets would be open to trading [Carlos] Beltran this winter, when he will be going into the final season of his seven-year, $119 million deal and will be owed $18.5 million.” Waldstein adds, “the Mets are ready to let Beltran go right now, for nothing in return, if a team claims him off waivers.”

Beltran, 33, has been struggling since he returned in mid-July from off-season knee surgery. He’s hitting .195/.300/.312 with 1 home run and 7 RBIs.

Prior to Beltran resuming his center field position, Angel Pagan was assuming his duties. Pagan, 29, is hitting .311/.370/.475 with 9 home runs and 50 RBIs – not bad for someone who used to worship Beltran when he was younger.

“He’s one of the best in the game,” Pagan said. “We are best when he is in center field.”

Beltran has a full no-trade clause in his contract, but would presumably waive it for a trade to a team he respects.