New York Mets keeping an eye on Gio Gonzalez situation
The New York Mets may be looking to make a move with their starting rotation, depending on whether or not a certain pitcher comes available.
Heading into the 2019 season, the New York Mets starting rotation was considered to be their greatest strength. Instead, the rotation has struggled, with even top of the rotation arms Jacob deGrom and Noah Syndergaard not looking like themselves. Jason Vargas has continued to be a disaster, and Chris Flexen, who filled in for deGrom on Saturday, was hammered.
Understandably, the Mets are considered to look for other options when it comes to the rotation. Flexen simply does not appear to be an answer, as he has not performed well at the major league level. Hector Santiago has had some success, but may not be much of an upgrade. Meanwhile, other options such as Corey Oswalt, do not inspire much confidence either.
However, there is one option that could come available. Gio Gonzalez exercised his opt-out on Saturday, giving the Yankees until Monday to either add him to the major league roster or grant his release. If Gonzalez is indeed let go, the Mets are keeping an eye on him as a possible option.
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Although Gonzalez saw his production decrease last season, he was still a solid back of the rotation option. Last season, between the Nationals and the Brewers, Gonzalez posted a 10-11 record with a 4.21 ERA and a 1.444 WHiP. In his 171 innings, Gonzalez struck out 148 batters while issuing 80 walks.
He was much better during his time in Milwaukee. Over the final month of the season, Gonzalez posted a 30- record in five starts, with a 2.13 ERA and a 0.947 WHiP. Although he did struggle in the postseason, lasting a total of three innings in his two starts, Gonzalez was a key part in the Brewers winning the NL Central.
At this point in his career, Gonzalez is no longer a top of the rotation arm. His time in AAA this season has been a bit of a mixed bag as well, as he has allowed ten runs on 19 hits and six walks over 15 innings. However, Gonzalez has also struck out 19 batters, showing that he has something left in the tank. If nothing else, he likely cannot be any worse than Vargas.
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The New York Mets are keeping an eye on Gio Gonzalez. If he becomes a free agent, they may be making a move with their rotation.