Mets’ Pitching Plans Despite Montas Injury
Despite the setback of right-hander Frankie Montas suffering a high-grade lat strain in early spring camp, the New York Mets are reportedly not in the market to add another starting pitcher. According to MLB.com’s Anthony DiComo, the Mets already have a robust list of candidates to fill their rotation, including Sean Manaea, Kodai Senga, Clay Holmes, David Peterson, Griffin Canning, Paul Blackburn, and Tylor Megill. These seven pitchers provide depth and flexibility, allowing the team to experiment with a five- or six-man rotation. While the Mets have had recent conversations with starters outside the organization, they are currently not considering any significant moves. Free agents such as Jose Quintana, who had a solid stint with the Mets over the past two seasons, remain available, but the team seems content with their current roster. The injury to Montas is a concern, but the Mets appear confident in their internal options to cover the early part of the season.
Minor League Movements
The Mets have been busy making minor league adjustments during the offseason. RHP Dylan Covey and INF Luis De Los Santos have been assigned outright to Triple-A Syracuse, officially clearing waivers after being designated for assignment last week. Covey, who signed with the club on a one-year split contract, did not appear in the majors last season as he was recovering from a right shoulder strain. However, he shone in the minor leagues, pitching to a 2.66 ERA with 14 strikeouts in 20.1 innings. De Los Santos, a 26-year-old infielder, has had limited big league experience, with just 29 at-bats and a .816 OPS in Triple-A last season. These moves allow the Mets to solidify their minor league presence while keeping their major league roster flexible for the upcoming season.
Targeting Dylan Cease
The Mets have added a formidable name to their pitching wish list this offseason: San Diego Padres right-hander Dylan Cease. According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, the team is "trying" to acquire Cease, who is set to earn just under $14 million for the upcoming season. Cease’s 2024 performance, which included a 3.47 ERA and 224 strikeouts over 189.1 innings, makes him an attractive option for New York. The Cubs are also showing interest, but the Mets are considered serious contenders due to their robust farm system. Potential trade packages could include prospects like Brandon Sproat, Jett Williams, and Luisangel Acuna. Cease’s addition would significantly bolster the Mets’ rotation, following his stellar 2021 season with the Chicago White Sox, where he struck out 227 batters in 184 innings and finished second in AL Cy Young voting. Heyman also suggests the Mets may have eyes on Padres starter Michael King, whose stock has risen following a breakout 2024 season.
Relief Corps Shake-up
The Mets’ efforts to strengthen their bullpen have been closely observed, with Tim Healey of Newsday reporting that the team has shown interest in veteran left-handed reliever Tim Hill. Hill, 34, was DFA’d by the White Sox last June but found a new lease on life with the Yankees, posting a 2.05 ERA in 35 appearances. Hill’s experience and sideways delivery could provide a unique and effective addition to the Mets’ bullpen. Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Dodgers continue to dominate the relief market, closing in on a deal with another star reliever, Kirby Yates. Yates, 38, had an All-Star campaign in 2024, achieving a 1.17 ERA and 0.827 WHIP over 61 games and 61.2 innings. The Mets, however, signed A.J. Minter, a former Braves reliever, to solidify their left-handed relief options, adding depth and high-leverage capabilities to their bullpen.
Exploring Outfield Options
The Mets are not only focusing on pitching but are also looking to enhance their outfield. Alex Verdugo, a free agent outfielder with experience in Boston and Los Angeles, is reportedly on the Mets’ radar, according to Chris Cotillo of MassLive. Verdugo’s market includes the Pirates, Blue Jays, and Mets, with the Pirates being the frontrunners. Verdugo’s versatility and solid defensive skills make him a valuable addition, particularly given the current composition of the Mets’ outfield, featuring Brandon Nimmo, Juan Soto, Starling Marte, Jeff McNeil, Tyrone Taylor, and Jose Siri. A deal with Verdugo could provide the Mets with a reliable bat and defensive player, adding depth and stability to a position that has seen significant turnover in recent years.
First Base and Infield Possibilities
The Mets are exploring various options to fill the gap at first base, especially in light of Pete Alonso’s uncertain future. According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, the team is engaged in talks with Paul Goldschmidt, a seven-time All-Star and five-time Silver Slugger award winner. Goldschmidt, 36, had a down year in 2024, slashing just 22 home runs with career-lows in OBP (.302), SLG (.414), and OPS (.716). This performance suggests he might sign a one-year deal, making him an affordable option for the Mets. The Yankees are also showing increased interest, along with the Seattle Mariners, San Francisco Giants, and Washington Nationals. Additionally, the Mets are considering more creative options on the trade market, such as acquiring third baseman Nolan Arenado from the St. Louis Cardinals. If successful, this move could allow Mark Vientos to shift to first base or become the designated hitter, depending on Alonso’s future with the team. These potential moves highlight the Mets’ proactive approach to addressing their infield needs and solidifying their lineup for the 2025 season.
