Report: Mets seeking 2 prospects for Bruce

The New York Mets have set their asking price for one of the team's trade chips.

The front office is reportedly seeking two prospects in any deal involving right fielder Jay Bruce, sources told Jim Salisbury of CSN Philly.

Bruce has been on the trade block since the Mets re-signed Yoenis Cespedes to a four-year, $110-million deal at the start of the offseason. Facing a crowded outfield, the team has made it clear the plan is to move one of Curtis Granderson or Bruce, with the latter being the preferred option to be dealt.

Salisbury notes the Philadelphia Phillies have expressed interest in Bruce throughout the offseason, but the front office prefers to hang onto their prospects and may instead go the free-agent route.

The Toronto Blue Jays have also been in contact with the Mets regarding a trade for Bruce, and have expressed similar interest in Granderson.

The 29-year-old is under contract and is set to earn $13 million next season before becoming a free agent in 2018.

After being acquired by the Mets at the non-waiver trade deadline, Bruce struggled down the stretch, hitting .219/.294/.391 including just .183/.262/.290 in the month of August.