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New York Mets in difficult spot with Kumar Rocker

By David Hill

Jun 30, 2021; Omaha, Nebraska, USA; Vanderbilt Commodores pitcher Kumar Rocker (80) pitches in the first inning against the Mississippi St. Bulldogs at TD Ameritrade Park. Mandatory Credit: Steven Branscombe-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 30, 2021; Omaha, Nebraska, USA; Vanderbilt Commodores pitcher Kumar Rocker (80) pitches in the first inning against the Mississippi St. Bulldogs at TD Ameritrade Park. Mandatory Credit: Steven Branscombe-USA TODAY Sports /
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The New York Mets appeared to have gotten the bargain of the draft when Kumar Rocker fell to the tenth overall pick. He instantly gave the Mets one of the top pitching prospects in the game, a potential ace whose fastball and wipeout slider are already impressive weapons. While there is some concern about his long term role, Rocker is the type of talent that should have been drafted much earlier.

Nonetheless, he fell in the draft until the Mets selection. And now we know why – his deal with the Mets is being held up due to concerns with his elbow.

New York Mets selection of Kumar Rocker may not work out

This news is certainly a disaster for the Mets. Seemingly no matter what direction they take, they will end up losing. Paying him the agreed upon $6 million bonus could be a disaster if his elbow woes require surgery. Renegotiating the deal would make sense, but could leave a bad taste in his mouth. And, with Scott Boras as Rocker’s agent, such a move could have long term ramifications when it comes to signing any of his clients in free agency.

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Then there is what may be the least attractive option – forfeiting the pick. The Mets would receive the 11th overall selection in the 2022 MLB Draft, which could theoretically allow them to draft Rocker again, especially if he misses the upcoming season due to his elbow problems. But that would result in essentially lighting the pick on fire.

In the end, it comes down to potential. Even with his elbow woes, Rocker has the potential to be a key part of the Mets’ future, a possible ace who could move relatively quickly through the system. His presence would help with their goal of building a sustainable contender, especially in the light of Steve Cohen’s proclamation that the Mets were done being an afterthought.

The best option may well be to give Rocker his money and hope for the best. This way, if he needs surgery, the Mets would be in control of his rehab, making certain that he is not overworked or rushed back before he is truly healthy. The Mets can take their time while doing everything possible to ensure that he can reach his potential.

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The New York Mets are in a difficult spot with Kumar Rocker. His elbow issues have held up his signing, and could lead to problems in the future.

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