New York Mets: Three free agents that can replace Zack Wheeler
1. Madison Bumgarner
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MadBum is currently straddling the line between the top two tiers of starting pitcher free agents. First off, he is not as flashy as most of the top tier arms- mostly wielding 95-mph plus. However, he is a superior pitcher to most of the second-tier pitchers that are available.
He posted over 200 innings once again in 2019, as he had a fairly impressive second half of the season. He is certainly not a perfect option and name recognition would do a lot to reinvigorate the New York Mets fanbase.
However, he is likely too costly for the Wilpons, as they will likely only offer GM Brodie Van Wagenen a limited amount of money to fill multiple holes. Therefore, about $10 million or less will likely be committed to this roster spot, as they still have massive bullpen issues.
Even though this is simply the current state of affairs, the Mets should not be given a pass for not pursuing Gerrit Cole or even resigning Wheeler. Bumgarner is as high as the Mets will aspire and even though that is high, it is not high enough when someone as talented as Cole is in the conversation.
Next. Will the Yankees pursue Gerrit Cole?. dark
It is extremely unlikely for MadBum to become a fixture in Queens, his place on this list simply represents the lack of the New York Mets aspirations.