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New York Mets expected to be players for Tomoyuki Sugano

By David Hill

LOS ANGELES, CA - MARCH 21: Tomoyuki Sugano #11 of Japanpitches during the Game 2 of the Championship Round of the 2017 World Baseball Classic between United States and Japan at Dodger Stadium on March 21, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Masterpress/Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CA - MARCH 21: Tomoyuki Sugano #11 of Japanpitches during the Game 2 of the Championship Round of the 2017 World Baseball Classic between United States and Japan at Dodger Stadium on March 21, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Masterpress/Getty Images) /
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The New York Mets have been linked to virtually every free agent. However, they could emerge with Tomoyuki Sugano when the dust has cleared.

As the New York Mets have new ownership and a mandate to win, the team has been considered a favorite to land virtually every top free agent available. To this point, the Mets have lived up to expectations, adding a new catcher and upgrading their bullpen.

At this point, it would seem that the Mets are not done. They are expected to add another starting pitcher, and have been considered amongst the favorites to land Trevor Bauer. Likewise, the Mets are widely considered one of the finalists for George Springer as they continue to be linked to the top players available.

While their quest for a starting pitcher continues, Bauer may not be the Mets primary focus. According to rival executives, New York could emerge as the landing spot for Tomoyuki Sugano.

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While Bauer is widely considered to be the top pitcher in free agency, there are questions as to who would take the second spot. Sugano could be that pitcher, giving the Mets another solid top of the rotation arm at a relative bargain.

Sugano has established himself as one of the top arms in Japan during his career. He has a lifetime 101-49 record in Nippon Professional Baseball, along with a 2.32 ERA and a 1.032 WHiP. In his 1360 innings, Sugano has struck out 1214 batters with just 265 walks. A two time winner of the Sawamura Award, he was also the Central League MVP in 2014. Sugano also showed that he can handle major league hitters, allowing just one unearned run in six innings during the 2017 World Baseball Classic.

The Mets have a distinct plan this offseason. While there have been gambles, such as inking James McCann to a four year deal, the roster appears to be better than it was at the end of the 2020 campaign. Sugano would also be a bit of a gamble as he is a relatively unproven commodity, but his acquisition could set up other moves.

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The New York Mets are expected to take a long look at Tomoyuki Sugano. He could be exactly the piece the Mets need in their rotation.

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