LAS VEGAS — Mets Seek to Strengthen Rotation
The Mets are on the lookout for a premier pitcher for their rotation, yet President of Baseball Operations David Stearns is currently focused on broadening his options.
“At this stage, we’re not sure how many genuine No. 1 starters we have,” Stearns mentioned during the GM meeting on Tuesday. “We’re uncertain about the number of players that might get traded or become available in free agency. However, it’s always important to seek out top-tier talent for the rotation.”
This sentiment echoes Stearns’ strategy from before the last season’s trade deadline, where the Mets struggled to enhance their rotation and ended up keeping their existing starters.
The decline in performance, particularly in the closing months of the season, played a part in the team’s inability to secure a playoff spot.
This offseason’s free agent market includes pitchers like Dylan Schiess, Framber Valdez, and Ranger Suarez. Though Stearns has been hesitant to commit to major contracts for starting pitchers in his tenure, he still holds onto the hope of developing a top pitcher from within.
On the trade side, it remains uncertain whether Tarik Skubal from the Tigers will be available before he reaches free agency. The Marlins are also thought to be interested in Sandy Alcantara.
“Having a true ace can simplify the process of enhancing both the rotation and overall pitching staff,” Stearns explained. “If one of those players becomes available, we’ll make our move.”
“Also, I’ve mentioned this several times: developing your own ace is the best way forward. I believe we’re heading in that direction. We’ll strive to fill any gaps however we can.”
Nolan McLean had moments where he could show potential as an ace during his seven starts last season. The expectation was on Kodai Senga to rise to that level, but after his return from the DL in July, he didn’t meet those expectations, finishing the season in the minors.
David Peterson, Sean Manaea, and Clay Holmes return as veteran starters, with younger pitchers Brandon Sproat, Christian Scott, and Jonah Tong also in the mix.
“I think we have a solid starting pitching staff,” Stearns noted. “I remain quite hopeful about our younger pitchers and those still adapting to the major league level.”
“That said, we’re always open to improving at the major league level, which means considering starting pitchers through free agency or trades.”
The largest deal for a Mets starting pitcher during Stearns’ era remains Manaea’s three-year contract worth $75 million. Unfortunately, he struggled last season with a 5.64 ERA after having previously emerged as a reliable option.
One notable misstep in Stearns’ management was the decision to grant Frankie Montas a two-year, $36 million contract. Montas missed significant time last season due to a lat injury and ended up needing Tommy John surgery, leaving him out for the entire next season.
When asked if the Mets might consider trading young talent for a top pitcher, Stearns acknowledged constraints. “Yes, there are limits like any player has limits,” he noted. “But we currently have depth and quality in our farm system, which allows us to not only support our major league team but potentially make trades for immediate reinforcements.”
