After parting with both Max Scherzer and Justin Verlander, the New York Mets are assured to add starting pitching to their rotation this offseason. The only question is, who?
Some of the top names on the market include Shohei Ohtani, Japanese star Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and several more. But will the Mets really chase the top names on the free agency market yet again?
According to Mark Feinsand of MLB.com, the Mets are “said to be enamored with Yoshinobu Yamamoto.” Yet, Yamamoto is expected to command a contract north of $200 million, which would set a new record for a player coming over from the NPB.
However, the Mets’ ownership group has shown they’re not afraid to dig deep into their pocketbook for the best players available. Last offseason, it was adding Scherzer, a three-time Cy Young winner, on a three-year, $130 million contract. Could this offseason bring a three-time Japanese Triple Crown winner to the Big Apple?
He may not be Ohtani, but with the former MVP winner unable to pitch in 2024 due to Tommy John surgery, Yamamoto is considered the next best pitcher in free agency. If the Mets are serious about adding a frontline starter, there may not be a better option than the 25-year-old five-time NPB All-Star.
Related: Shohei Ohtani free agency sweepstakes may involve 10 teams, but there’s already one frontrunner