Exploring the New York Mets Free Agents
The New York Mets have a lot of work to do this offseason. Under new leadership with owner Steve Cohen, the Mets must navigate the free agent market if they hope to make the playoffs and potentially compete for a championship. With numerous players hitting the free agent market this year, the team will have to make some tough decisions regarding who to re-sign, who to let go, and who to target from other teams.
Comprehensive List of Mets’ Free Agents
The New York Mets currently have thirteen free agents this offseason.
Jed Lowrie: The infielder missed most of the last two seasons due to injuries. As a result, the Mets are unlikely to re-sign him and will look elsewhere for infield depth.
Wilson Ramos: A starting catcher for the past two seasons, Ramos struggled offensively in the shortened 2020 season. The Mets are unlikely to re-sign him, and they’ll look to upgrade the catcher position this offseason.
Marcus Stroman: One of the more notable players in this year’s free agent class, Stroman has been an integral piece of the Mets’ starting rotation. Despite missing the 2020 season due to COVID-19 concerns, Stroman is likely to receive multiple offers from around the league.
Jake Marisnick: As a backup outfielder, Marisnick filled an essential role during the 2020 season, but the Mets may opt to pursue younger and cheaper options to fill that role.
Chasen Shreve: A midseason addition to the bullpen, Shreve provided a reliable left-handed option, but the Mets are unlikely to re-sign him and will likely pursue other lefties in free agency or via trade.
Brad Brach: Brach has been a reliable reliever in the past, but had a down year in 2020. The Mets may choose to re-sign him for bullpen depth but will likely seek to add more depth via free agency or trade.
Miguel Castro: Acquired from the Baltimore Orioles early in the season, Castro became one of the team’s most effective relievers. The Mets are likely to bring him back, as he should play a key role in their bullpen in 2021.
Todd Frazier: The 34-year-old third baseman was acquired in a trade last season but struggled at the plate and is unlikely to see a return to the Mets.
Ali Sanchez: A young catcher who saw limited playing time in 2020, Sanchez will likely be back with the team in a minor league role.
Robinson Chirinos: Acquired from the Texas Rangers in a trade, Chirinos did little to earn himself a spot on the 2021 roster. He’ll likely look elsewhere for an opportunity.
Michael Wacha: The former All-Star had a rough season in 2020, making it unlikely that the team will bring him back next season.
Jedrick Fegley: Acquired in the middle of the 2020 season, Fegley played well enough in a limited role, but the Mets will likely prioritize finding other catching options.
Yoenis Cespedes: The former All-Star never played a game in 2020 and opted-out of the season due to COVID-19. The Mets are unlikely to re-sign him, and he may struggle to find a place on an MLB roster in 2021.
Top Three Most Important Free Agents for Mets
The Mets’ top priority heading into free agency this season should be keeping their starting pitcher, Marcus Stroman. After missing 2020, the team will want Stroman’s steady presence and playoff experience on the mound for the 2021 season. Stroman will likely command a high salary, but the Mets should do what it takes to re-sign him.
The second most important free agent for the Mets to retain is starting pitcher, Rick Porcello. Porcello had a down season in 2020, but he has a solid track record and should be affordable for the Mets to bring back.
Third on the list should be relief pitcher Justin Wilson. Wilson was one of the few consistent arms out of the bullpen in 2020, and his experience pitching in New York will be valuable in the coming seasons.
Analysis of Failed Contract Negotiations with Noah Syndergaard
The Mets failed to come to an agreement with starting pitcher, Noah Syndergaard, prior to his free agency. The two sides had reportedly been in talks about a contract extension, but Syndergaard decided to bet on himself and take his chances in free agency. Syndergaard will likely receive a significant contract from another team, and the Mets will be left without one of their best starting pitchers.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Retaining Marcus Stroman
Marcus Stroman would be a valuable asset to the Mets’ starting rotation, but there are some potential downsides to bringing him back. Stroman can be an expensive player, and the Mets may need to allocate resources to other positions. Additionally, Stroman’s personality and approach could clash with new manager Luis Rojas. However, Stroman is still young and has the potential to be a star pitcher in the coming seasons, making him an attractive target for the Mets.
General Update on Mets’ Free Agency Signings
The Mets have made some moves this offseason, signing starting pitcher, Taiwan Walker, to a two-year deal. Walker is a solid addition to the rotation and gives the Mets more depth in their starting pitching ranks. In addition, the team re-signed reliever Brad Brach to a one-year deal, adding depth to the bullpen.
The team has also been linked to a number of free agents who could help improve the roster. A top priority for the team has been upgrading the catcher position, and they have been linked to a number of big-name players, including J.T. Realmuto and James McCann. In addition, they’ve reportedly shown interest in outfielder George Springer and pitcher Trevor Bauer.
Comparison of the Mets’ Free Agency Situation to Other Teams
The Mets are in a unique position this offseason, as they have a new owner who is willing to open up his wallet and spend money to improve the team. Other teams around the league are facing financial difficulties due to the COVID-19 pandemic and may be more cautious about making big deals in free agency. The Mets’ willingness to spend could give them an advantage in the market and help them land top players.
Steve Cohen’s First Offseason with the Mets
Under new ownership, the Mets are experiencing a cultural shift. Previous ownership was hesitant to spend money and didn’t prioritize winning. New owner Steve Cohen has already made it clear that he’s willing to spend whatever it takes to win and is targeting a championship in the coming years. This new approach has already been reflected in the Mets’ free agency signings, and it will be fascinating to see how it plays out in the coming seasons.
Conclusion
The Mets are facing a pivotal offseason in 2021. With numerous free agents to consider and a new owner willing to spend big, the team has an opportunity to make some big moves and solidify themselves as contenders in the National League. Retaining key players like Marcus Stroman and Rick Porcello will be important for the team’s success, and pursuing top free agents could put them over the top. Fans should stay tuned for more updates as the offseason progresses.
