The New York Mets suffered a disastrous finish to last season, collapsing after once holding the best record in Major League Baseball and ultimately failing to reach the postseason.
ESPN’s Jeff Passan captured the slide succinctly, noting that after starting 45–24, the Mets went 31–47 the rest of the way better than only three teams in baseball calling it less a collapse and more a complete unraveling.
The Mets’ offseason initially mirrored that disappointment, as they were quiet on the free-agent and trade fronts. That changed abruptly when New York made a series of moves, headlined by the acquisition of starting pitcher Freddy Peralta.
As ESPN’s Jorge Castillo reported, the Mets concluded their long search for a frontline starter by trading for All-Star Freddy Peralta and right-hander Tobias Myers from the Milwaukee Brewers in exchange for top prospects Brandon Sproat and Jett Williams.
Even with Peralta in the fold, New York may not be finished adding to its rotation. MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand has identified the Mets as a continuing suitor for Framber Valdez.
According to Feinsand, while the Peralta trade reduced the urgency to add another ace, questions surrounding the inexperience of McLean and Holmes who is only entering his second year as a starter could prompt the Mets to pursue an additional proven pitcher. Although president of baseball operations David Stearns has historically avoided long-term commitments to starters, Valdez could become an attractive option if he is open to a shorter deal with opt-out clauses.
Landing Valdez would further strengthen what has already been a productive offseason for New York. With Spring Training nearing and the World Series–winning, two-time All-Star still unsigned, the Mets could position themselves as a serious contender if market conditions shift. A move for Valdez could elevate New York into favorite status within the NL East
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