The Mets drafted Kumar Rocker 10th overall in 2021, but didn't sign him after a doctor reviewed his physical and noted issues with his shoulder and elbow (though Rocker's doctor said he was fine). Rocker has since required surgery on both his shoulder and elbow, but is emerging as a potential star for the Rangers.
Rocker, who Texas shocked everyone by selecting him third overall the year after the Mets passed on him, struck out seven in his four-inning debut after posting a 2.80 ERA in the minor leagues.
The Mets used the additional pick they acquired on catcher Kevin Parada (.663 OPS), who is still struggling in Double-A.
One interesting storyline is the Nationals trying to re-sign Juan Soto, and one rival GM pointed out that not only were the Nationals the first team to offer Soto $440 million before trading him for five top prospects, but it makes sense because the Nationals also have Patrick Corbin (at a staggering $35 million) on an expiring contract and the 25-year-old Soto would be a perfect fit for their talented young position core.
But the Nationals' chances of winning from here on out seem slim, since win-first owner Ted Lerner was replaced by his budget-conscious son, Mark Lerner.
The Phillies are a serious team that makes sense, but center fielder Cody Bellinger might be a better fit if he opts out (though current speculation is that he may not, as he has $52.5 million under contract through 2026 and another significant opt-out to come).
The Braves like Soto, like many others, but their track record shows they've never spent big money (they didn't even bother with Shohei Ohtani).
Nearly every team (except the Marlins and White Sox) wants the 25-year-old superstar, but the Mets seem the more likely landing spot if he were to leave the Yankees for the National League East.
