Feinsand later added that the Mets "have been one of the more aggressive teams in their pursuit of Robert, with one source taking it to another level by calling New York 'the frontrunner.'"

With the trade deadline days away, the Mets remain open to trading one of their young infielders, including Mark Vientos, if the return is right.

Mullins, 30, is hitting just .221 with 15 homers, 47 RBI, 41 runs, 14 stolen bases and a .722 OPS, though that would be an upgrade over Tyrone Taylor (.559 OPS).