Entering the latter stages of their rebuilding program, the New York Mets have a crucial amateur draft coming up in June.
Over the recent years, the Mets have drafted very young players with an emphasis on tools rather than filling needs. With a much deeper farm system than just a half-decade ago, the Mets could potentially alter this strategy for 2014.
The Mets seem primed to compete next season, as well as try to push for an optimistic 90-win season this year.
Therefore, it is reasonable to believe the Mets may emphasize filling holes with veteran collegiate talent. Draft picks out of college need much less grooming time in the minors, so a player who is drafted in 2014 could be in the majors by 2015 or 2016, right when the Mets plan to compete again.
At the same time, if a high-ceiling player were available for the Mets at pick No. 10, recent history shows they will not be afraid to pull the trigger.
With these ideas in mind, here are four potential draft targets for the Mets with their first-round pick in 2014: