Rumors suggest the New York Mets may be closing in on a top remaining free agent at a bargain price, while Brett Baty could be headed for an unexpected role in the 2026 season.
It has been a turbulent few days for the Mets and their fans. On Thursday, the team’s frustrating offseason took another hit when they not only missed out on Kyle Tucker but were also significantly outbid by the rival Los Angeles Dodgers. Still, the organization quickly shifted gears and made a bold move the very next day.
On Friday, the Mets caught many around the league off guard by abandoning their pursuit of a major outfield addition and instead signing two-time All-Star infielder Bo Bichette. While the former Blue Jays star brings much-needed offensive firepower, the move did not solve all of New York’s issues. The team still has glaring needs in the starting rotation and the outfield.
One intriguing option for the rotation has now surfaced. Former All-Star Zac Gallen remains one of the best pitchers available in free agency. However, according to The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal, Gallen is considered one of the “least appealing” free agents on the market due to being tied to a qualifying offer and coming off a career-worst 2025 campaign.
Gallen finished last season with a 13–15 record, a 4.83 ERA, 175 strikeouts, and 66 walks. Despite those struggles, one executive told Rosenthal that Gallen could be “squeezed” by the market, potentially settling for an annual salary in the $13–15 million range. That would represent strong value for a seven-year veteran who recorded double-digit wins in four straight seasons and showed signs of improvement late last year.
If the Mets fail to land higher-profile arms like Framber Valdez or cannot complete a trade for Freddy Peralta, Gallen could emerge as a practical and affordable fallback option in the coming weeks.
Meanwhile, Brett Baty’s future with the Mets may take an unexpected turn. The current projection for Opening Day’s outfield includes Juan Soto, Tyrone Taylor, and top prospect Carson Benge. However, The Athletic’s Will Sammon believes the team is still likely to pursue a more proven veteran for center or left field.
While young players such as Baty and Mark Vientos could be used as trade assets to address the outfield, Sammon also noted that the Mets may choose to keep Baty. In that scenario, he could fill a versatile role similar to Jeff McNeil’s last season, which included spending time in left field.
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