Despite a glaring need in the starting rotation heading into 2024, the New York Mets are reportedly targeting a pitcher who likely won’t even be able to play next season.
Entering the offseason the top priority for the Mets was to improve and add depth to their starting rotation. Following a pair of blockbuster deals before the trade deadline this summer, the team only had Kodai Senga, Joey Lucchesi, Jose Quintana, and Tyler Megill penciled into the starting staff next year.
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While they signed New York Yankees veteran Luis Severino earlier this month, it still isn’t a rotation that will strike fear in opposing teams next year. That is why the organization has made a hard run at signing Japanese ace Yoshinobu Yamamoto this offseason. However, it seems they have a few other arms on their wish list, including one player who maybe won’t even be available next season.
New York Mets are interested in a pitcher who just underwent major shoulder surgery
On Tuesday night, New York Post MLB insider Jon Heyman reported that the organization has “checked in” about the availability of notable free agents like Blake Snell, Jordan Montgomery, Shota Imanaga, and Lucas Giolito as Yamamoto backup options. However, they are also interested in Milwaukee Brewers veteran Brandon Woodruff.
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Considering the major need ahead of 2024 and their preference to not waste money, the 30-year-old is an odd choice because he had surgery to repair the anterior capsule in his throwing shoulder in October. Since it is such a major surgery, there is a very real chance he will not be able to pitch at all next season.
- Brandon Woodruff stats (2023): 5-1 record, 2.28 ERA, 0.821 WHIP, 74 SO, 67.1 IP
Nevertheless, he is a two-time All-Star and has a ton of upside if he can return to his previous form in 2025.