New York Mets rumors: Justin Verlander talks have begun
The New York Mets are not going to be caught flat-footed if Jacob deGrom heads elsewhere.
According to Ken Rosenthal, the Mets and Justin Verlander have had discussions about the Astros’ ace heading to New York. The two sides met via Zoom last week as the Mets look to address the openings in their rotation.
New York Mets already talking to Justin Verlander
The Mets have plenty of work to do on their rotation. deGrom, Chris Bassitt, and Taijuan Walker are all free agents, leaving major holes in the pitching staff. Max Scherzer is not showing any signs of slowing down, but having Carlos Carrasco as a second starter at this stage of his career is not exactly conducive to reaching the playoffs.
Verlander would fit well as the Mets co-ace. He bounced back from Tommy John surgery to put together a dominant season in 2022, leading the majors with a 1.75 ERA and a 0.829 WHiP. He may not have been the workhorse he was in the past, but Verlander still fired 175 innings, striking out 185 batters with 29 walks as he showed that he is completely recovered.
He would also fit perfectly with Scherzer atop the Mets rotation. While both pitchers are facing the end of their careers, they have still been able to dominate when on the mound. For a Mets team desperate to win another championship, having those remaining one or two years of dominance is all that matters.
Ultimately, it will all come down to deGrom. The Mets still feel that they are his preferred landing spot, especially as they are the only franchise he has known. However, if he does decide to head for another franchise, the Mets are not going to be caught by surprise without another plan.
Next. 3 players for Mets to target. dark
The New York Mets have already had discussions with Justin Verlander. They are getting ready just in case they need to find another co-ace.