The New York Mets are one of the biggest surprises in baseball. With a resurgent David Wright, and a surprising breakout season from R.A. Dickey, the Mets find themselves at just 2.5 games off the division lead -- and would be the second wild card team in the playoffs if the season ended today. But their lead on that spot is tenuous, as there are currently at least eight teams vying for five playoff spots.

While the Mets are in good position, the trade deadline could really shake things up in the National League. If the Mets want to ensure themselves a playoff spot, they should go all in at the deadline.

The first reason why is that the Mets' core group of players are aging. New York's top three players according to WAR are all at an age where it's not typical for players to improve any further. Wright has experienced a big rebound at age 29, but he's dealt with some major injuries throughout his career and there was concern that he was in decline last year. It's a miracle that 33-year-old Johan Santana is pitching this well after missing the entire 2011 season with a shoulder injury. And while Dickey has been phenomenal, he's also 37. They've all churned out great performances this year, but there should be a healthy dose of skepticism as to whether they'll be able to replicate their performances next season.

To read the rest of the story, including why the Mets should consider including Zack Wheeler in a deal for Zack Greinke, click here (Insider).

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