This article was originally published on www.si.com/mlb/mets/onsi as Mets have stiff competition for top trade target.

The New York Mets and San Diego Padres are reportedly in trade discussions despite the respective stars of each team being left out of negotiations.

The Mets signed veteran switch-hitter Jorge Polanco in free agency on Saturday, their first move to replace Pete Alonso’s presence at first base and in the heart of their lineup. Will Sammon of The Athletic was first to report Polanco’s deal with New York, a two-year contract worth $40 million.

The New York Mets have now lost two key All-Stars in a matter of days, which affects the team’s focus on run prevention this offseason.

The St. Louis Cardinals have received calls about first baseman Willson Contreras from both the Boston Red Sox and New York Mets. Contreras hopes to remain in S