Jon Heyman of MLB Network reported that the Mets are interesting in a reunion with starting pitcher Steven Matz.
Matz, 30, spent six full seasons with the Mets before being traded to the Blue Jays prior to the 2021 season. Over six seasons in Flushing, Matz had a 4.35 ERA over 107 starts, and had a 1.32 WHIP.
The 2021 season was one of his best in the majors. Over 29 starts, Matz had a 3.82 ERA which was his lowest since 2016, where he posted a 3.40 ERA. One of his biggest issues in his last three full seasons in New York were walks, which he dialed down in 2021. He only walked 43 batters, which was his lowest in a full season since 2016.
The left-handed arm in the rotation would be a good boost, considering the only lefty at the moment is David Peterson. However, a serious foot injury makes him a big question mark. That leaves the Mets with no guaranteed lefties in the rotation entering 2022.
There are a few left-handed starters on the market, Matz being one of them. Some of them include AL Cy Young Robbie Ray, Danny Duffy, and Alex Wood. With many solid options, the Mets may choose to go after one that wouldn’t cost as much, and Matz being familiar with New York helps his case.
