New York Mets rotation still a major question mark
The New York Mets have seemingly upgraded their starting rotation already. Max Scherzer had signed a three year deal prior to the lockout, pairing with Jacob deGrom to give the team a formidable duo atop their rotation. It would be understood if the rest of the roster was given more consideration once the lockout ends.
But there are question marks with that rotation. Scherzer and Taijuan Walker are the only starters to make at least 30 appearances in 2021. Walker’s 30 appearances not only marked a career high, but 2021 was the first time that he had at least 12 appearances in a season since 2017.
New York Mets still need to address rotation
Age is also not on the Mets’ side. Scherzer has been a workhorse, but is 37 years old and had a tired arm at the end of last season. Carlos Carrasco will be 35 years old at the start of the season, has made exactly 12 starts in each of the past three years, and was brutal last year. deGrom is 33, and as dominant as he has been, has made a combined 27 starts in the past two years.
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The problem for the Mets is that there are not many options in free agency that would help. Carlos Rodon was excellent last season, but had been middling at best throughout his entire career previously. Clayton Kershaw is an injury risk in his own right. The other options available are best suited for the back of the rotation and may not be an upgrade.
This means that the Mets are likely going to have to enter the trade market. While the A’s and Reds are looking to part with several of their players to save money, they will be in a bidding war that they cannot win. The Rays could also be a possible trade partner, especially as they are always looking to offload salary.
What is clear is that the Mets still have work to do in their rotation. The problem is that while there are still avenues to upgrade the rotation, none of them will clearly give the Mets what they need. Add in the fact that four of their five current starters are on the wrong side of 30, and Mets could have some issues even if they do land that upgrade.
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The New York Mets have upgraded their rotation, but they still need to do more this offseason. The problem is figuring out how to do just that.