Although Marcus Stroman did not throw a pitch for the New York Mets in 2020, they should look to extend the Qualifying Offer.
Heading into the season, the New York Mets were seemingly set up for a playoff run. They had a deep and talented rotation, and even had plenty of depth in case of the inevitable injuries. However, we all know what they say about the best laid plans, and that was definitely the case with the Mets in 2020. They ended the season with a disappointing 26-34 record, their team seemingly in a state of chaos.
It certainly did not help the Mets case that two of their top starters, Noah Syndergaard and Marcus Stroman, did not throw a pitch for the team all year. Syndergaard was lost to Tommy John surgery, while Stroman had a calf injury. He then stayed on the Injured List just long enough to accrue the service time required to become a free agent, then opted out of the year.
That move leaves Stroman as an interesting case going forward. The Mets could theoretically use the Qualifying Offer to retain his services for 2021, but the idea of spending $18.9 million for a player who essentially gamed the system on them may not be something ownership would desire to do.
Stroman, for his part, has stated his desire to find a long term deal. However, his abrupt departure, and how he went about opting out of the 2020 campaign, may leave a bad taste in the mouths of front offices around the game. It is possible that he would need to accept a one year deal to rebuild his value going forward.
Meanwhile, the Mets still have their sights set on contending, and contending soon. Stroman, when added to the duo of Jacob deGrom and David Peterson, and potentially the mid-2021 return of Syndergaard, would give New York a formidable rotation.
If Stroman was to accept that offer, the Mets would have a motivated arm going forward. Stroman would need to rebuild his value, which would work to their advantage. If he can pitch to his capabilities, it is even possible that the two sides could discuss an extension.
But first, the New York Mets would need to keep Marcus Stroman around. To do that, they should extend the Qualifying Offer.