The Mets took on Luis Severino as part of their many projects to bring out the talent within players who failed elsewhere. After being released by the Yankees, Severino signed a one-year, $13 million deal with the Mets, with the potential to earn an extra $2 million through performance bonuses.

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Severino faced difficulties last year with the Yankees, posting a 6.65 ERA, although he had shown promise in previous seasons with a 3.39 ERA over 638 innings. Injuries plagued Severino’s career, particularly in recent years, including Tommy John surgery that caused him to miss the entire 2020 season.

Despite his setbacks, the Mets are banking on Severino’s potential if he can stay healthy, considering his underwhelming stint with the Yankees. His latest performance during Spring Training suggests this gamble could pay off.

Severino wrapped up his impressive spring with a strong outing against the Nationals, pitching five innings of one-run ball and striking out four in a 10-1 victory for the Mets.

He began by striking out CJ Abrams and Eddie Rosario with well-placed fastballs in a stellar first inning. The second inning was even easier. Severino needed only six pitches to retire the side with three weak line outs.

Although Washington threatened with two runners on base in the third, Severino navigated through the danger by inducing a shallow flyout from Jesse Winker. He continued his dominance through the fourth inning, but the Nationals finally got to him with a run in the fifth.

Severino quickly recovered, striking out the next batter to strand a runner in scoring position and end his outing positively. Overall, Severino conceded just one run on four hits while walking one and striking out four over five innings.

Throughout Spring Training, Severino showcased his talent with a stellar 1.29 ERA across four starts, and despite some minor challenges, Severino showcased confidence and control on the mound.

Severino is undoubtedly optimistic as he prepares for his debut with the Mets. His solid performance in spring, where he allowed only two runs on nine hits with 12 strikeouts in five appearances, bodes well for his upcoming start against the Milwaukee Brewers at Citi Field next weekend.

With the many questions surrounding the state of the Mets’ starting rotation, a solid Luis Severino would squash many of the concerns surrounding the pitching and would also make for a perfect compliment for staff ace Kodai Senga.