Now that MLB's arbitration-eligible contracts are almost finalized and they finally acquired several relief pitchers in free agency, the bullpen market has probably started to move.
The Mets have other things to do besides Pete Alonso, and they're keeping an eye on Edwin Diaz as he could be a late addition.
The Blue Jays signed 2024 All-Star Jeff Hoffman and three-time All-Star on Friday, just days after the Orioles traded right-hander Andrew Kittredge to a one-year, $10 million contract and days after the Rangers acquired right-hander Chris Martin. He signed a contract worth $33 million a year. 5.5 million dollars for one year.
Even the small number of signings is a sign of vigor from a position group that entered this weekend with just 17 relief pitchers who agreed to non-split major league contracts this offseason — the Mets signed starting pitchers. Clay Holmes is not included.
The Mets acquired Dylan Covey and Justin Hagenmann on split contracts.
The club recently met with Tanner Scott, the biggest domino at the top of the reliever market who is ideal for the Mets after underwhelming performances with the Marlins and Padres.
Among pitchers who pitched at least 100 innings in 2023 and 2024, the left-handed pitcher had the third-best ERA of 2.04 with 188 strikeouts in 150 frames.
The Mets can take advantage of that, or they can use their handedness. Danny Young is the only bullpen southpaw on the Mets' 40-man roster.
Even without Scott, the Mets could scan lower-level relievers such as Kirby Yates, Jose Leclerc, and former Met's David Robertson.
The Mets could acquire 32-year-old Carlos Estevez, who is coming off strong seasons with the Angels and Phillies, but sources say the Mets haven't signed Estevez recently.
Locking up Kenley Jansen would be surprising, as former Dodgers, Braves and Red Sox right-hander Kenley Jansen was looking to become a full-time closer and increase his save numbers.
The Mets are searching for the top of the reliever market, in part because there are many questions and risks surrounding Diaz, who is coming off an up-and-down return season.
Ryne Stanek, Phil Mayton, Adam Ottavino, Drew Smith and Brooks Reilly became free agents.
The Mets' remaining options include Reid Garrett, DeDoniel Nunez, Young, Huascar Brazoban, Sean Reid-Foley, Max Kranjic, Tyler Zuber, and Kevin Hargett (right-handed pitcher slotted as starter). If you can't expand, there might be Jose Butt as well).
They've also imported a number of players on minor league deals with major league experience, including Chris Devenski, Genesis Cabrera, Anthony Gose, and Oliver Ortega, but there's definitely room for proven arms.
With several relievers out, the Mets could be close to finding that arm.
