UPDATE: New York Mets President of Baseball Operations David Stearns confirmed today that the team will not pursue high-priced starting pitchers despite ongoing struggles in their rotation. With the trade deadline behind them, fans are left questioning the team’s strategy as they face a critical juncture in the season.
The Mets’ starting rotation has been underperforming dramatically, with only David Peterson managing to pitch six innings in the past month. As the team looks to bolster its lineup, attention has shifted to promoting top-tier pitching prospects Brandon Sproat and Nolan McLean from Triple-A. Stearns stated, “We may get to the point where we decide that it’s the best thing to do to bring one or both of them here. But we’re not at that point right now,” indicating a cautious approach.
Earlier this month, the Mets made substantial moves to strengthen their bullpen, acquiring three elite relievers—Ryan Helsley, Tyler Rogers, and Gregory Soto—as well as veteran center fielder Cedric Mullins. However, despite engaging in discussions about potential trade targets like MacKenzie Gore from the Washington Nationals, Stearns deemed the costs prohibitive.
While many teams faced similar challenges at the trade deadline, Stearns’ refusal to overpay for starting pitchers reflects a long-term strategy that prioritizes developing talent over immediate fixes. “We focused on the back end of the pitching staff, the bullpen,” Stearns noted, expressing confidence in their current roster and the development of minor league prospects.
The Mets had previously pursued Japanese pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto, offering a contract mirroring the $325 million deal he ultimately received from the Los Angeles Dodgers. This illustrates the Mets’ willingness to invest in exceptional talent when it aligns with their priorities.
Despite a promising start to the season, the Mets have seen their rotation’s performance decline sharply, currently ranking 24th in ERA at 4.74 since June 7. Injuries have compounded the issue, with key pitchers like Kodai Senga and Griffin Canning sidelined. Manager Carlos Mendoza emphasized the need for consistent quality starts, stating, “It starts on the mound and we haven’t been able to get some quality starts.”
Both Sproat and McLean have excelled in the minors, with McLean boasting a 2.81 ERA in Triple-A Syracuse, while Sproat recently held opponents to just two earned runs in 33 innings over his last six starts. Their potential call-up could be a game-changer for the Mets as they aim to stay competitive in the playoff race.
As the Mets approach a crucial stretch in the season, fans and analysts alike are left anxiously awaiting news on whether these promising prospects will join the big league roster. Stearns remains optimistic, stating, “I think they’re getting close.”
Stay tuned for live updates as the Mets navigate this pivotal moment in their season.
