The New York Mets want a top prospect for outfielder Carlos Beltran, Buster Olney of ESPN reports. The San Francisco Giants have been the leading contender for Beltran’s services, but given their lead in the National League West, their needs for someone of Beltran’s caliber may not warrant a sacrifice of their future.

It was suggested earlier this week that the Giants could move pitching prospect Zack Wheeler to New York in exchange for Beltran in addition to New York paying most of the $9 million that is due to outfielder for the rest of the season.

While not mentioned specifically by the media, the team could also move Brandon Belt or event starting pitcher Jonathan Sanchez.

Image by Keith Allison under the Creative Commons License.