A possible rift between Marcus Stroman and the New York Mets

The New York Mets need pitching. Marcus Stroman wants to return to the Mets and staying in New York. One would imagine that this should be an easy enough situation to figure out where the two sides agree on a dollar amount and a deal gets done.

However, as is the case with almost everything involving the Mets, that is not the case. There is a rift opening between the organization and Stroman, one that could see him departing for another team.

New York Mets need to mend bridges with Marcus Stroman

Stroman is correct when he says that he has proven he can pitch in New York. He has posted a 3.21 ERA and a 1.228 WHiP in his 238.2 innings with the Mets, striking out 218 batters with 67 walks. Between his ability to navigate a tough AL East during his time with the Blue Jays, and ease in handling the pressures of New York, it would seem to be an easy decision to bring him back.

But there is more to the story than just Stroman’s performance in New York. The 2020 season may have rankled Cohen and the Mets due to the nature of his sitting out. He had injured his calf during the second spring training, and the moment that he had accumulated enough service time to reach free agency, announced that he was opting out of the rest of the year.

That move, while utterly brilliant from a financial and service time manipulation perspective, likely did not do him many favors in the industry. It may be a part of why the Mets are looking elsewhere to fill out their rotation, considering Stroman an option, but further down their list.

If that is the case, it is truly unfortunate. The Mets need someone that has the proven ability to handle the city and the pressure of high expectations. They also need someone with that chip on their shoulder and the fire to come after anyone. The Mets need Marcus Stroman.

There is still time for the New York Mets to repair any rift between the organization and Marcus Stroman. That should be their next priority this offseason.