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Report: Mets interested in trading for Bruce

Thearon W. Henderson / Getty Images Sport / Getty

With the trade deadline fast approaching, the New York Mets have their sights set on adding some power to their struggling lineup and are showing interest in Cincinnati Reds right fielder Jay Bruce, ESPN's Buster Olney reported Friday.

Olney notes that the two teams discussed a deal at last year's deadline which included starter Zack Wheeler, but talks stalled when Cincinnati asked for more.

The Mets have been riddled by injuries with Yoenis Cespedes, Lucas Duda, David Wright, Jose Reyes, and Juan Lagares all on the shelf. Bruce would be a welcomed addition as the Mets are currently 28th in runs scored.

Bruce, who has a $13-million team option next year, has a limited no trade clause and can block a trade to eight teams (Arizona, Boston, Cleveland, Miami, Minnesota, NY Yankees, Oakland, and Tampa Bay).

After hitting .222/.288/.406 with 44 home runs the last two seasons, Bruce has significantly upped his trade value this season, hitting .271/.323/.572 with 25 home runs and leads the National League with 79 RBIs. He's also riding a five-game home run streak with 13 RBIs in that span.

The power hitter has also generated interest from the Los Angeles Dodgers, Washington Nationals, and Baltimore Orioles, a source told ESPN's Jerry Crasnick.

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