Ask any Mets fan what the Mets need to compete in 2020 and they will likely tell you three things – an addition to the starting rotation, a competent bullpen, and an actual centerfielder.
Mets GM Brodie Van Wagenen also knows this. At the GM meetings this week, Van Wagenen stated that the rotation, bullpen, and centerfield defense are three areas in which the Mets look to improve.
What is their plan of attack? As of yet, he has not said.
It is a good sign that Van Wagenen is acknowledging these lapses on the roster. Now let’s just hope he’s not all talk and the Mets actually do add to these three lacking places in the offseason.
In terms of adding to the rotation, the Mets did extend a qualifying offer of $17.8 million to Zack Wheeler, which he will decline. They have made it known that they do have a plan in terms of acquiring another starter — trades and other free agents will be considered, as well as moving Seth Lugo or Robert Gsellman into the rotation.
The bullpen was arguably the biggest issue for the Mets in 2019. It was something they should have added to before the trade deadline. Hopefully they do not make this same mistake this offseason. Having a reliable bullpen makes or breaks a game — as we saw many times in 2019. The Mets need to add strong, stable arms and should make this a priority.
With Juan Lagares now a free agent, the Mets truly do not have a “real” centerfielder (unless you count their manager, Carlos Beltran!). Having a strong arm in center will be a big benefit — we all know this, and it will be nice to see again, especially with Beltran there leading the way.
All of this is great that the Mets know where they are lacking. Now hopefully they just make the right moves to fill those gaps and make the right changes to fully get this team performing to their fullest potential.
