The Mets need pitching, that is clear. Relief help and a starter. No argument there. But it isn’t their biggest need. The area that David Stearns has to upgrade most is his lineup.

With approximately a week and a half left before the MLB trade deadline, rival evaluators say they admire the New York Mets’ farm system, noting its improvement, quality and depth. It is deep in terms of sought-after pitchers and up-the-middle position players.

The New York Mets have one of the best rosters in baseball, but they need another pitcher. They could find the perfect solution in a trade.

Raley, returning from Tommy John, offers the Mets both pedigree and experience. He's pitched in three separate postseasons, striking out over a batter per inning while pitching to a 4.73 ERA and 3.40 FIP across 13.1 innings.

The New York Yankees may not be planning the trade deadline moves that have long been speculated. While they came into the season needing a third baseman and continue to need one, that is not their highest priority anymore,

It’s been well-established that even with the return of lefty Brooks Raley on Friday, the Mets’ bullpen was a mess and a prime target to be upgraded by president of baseball operations David Stearns by the July 31 trade deadline.

This story was excerpted from Anthony DiComo's Mets Beat newsletter. To read the full newsletter, click here. And subscribe to get it regularly in your inbox.

While the New York Mets have been quiet in terms of trade deadline moves, there's no reason fans should think they'll remain this way, as the vast majority of d