Contrary to previous reports, a source told Kristie Ackert of the New York Daily News that the Mets are not actively talking about bringing back Bartolo Colon.
“You never know, things could change, but it’s not something I see happening,” one source said. “It’s not a name I’ve been hearing.”
Ervin Santana had said that the Mets had interest in Colon.
“I guess Bartolo is always an option, but not anyone has talked about (that) lately,” another source said. “A starting pitcher isn’t a priority right now.”
Original report – Jan. 21, 1 p.m.
Twins right-hander Ervin Santana appeared at Twinsfest yesterday and had some news to report regarding one of his former teammates as detailed in an article by Twincities.com
Santana mentioned that the Mets have interest in a reunion with Bartolo Colon.
Colon struggled last season with a 7-14 record to go along with a 6.48 ERA, 1.587 WHIP, 5.21 FIP, and 89 SO in 148 innings between the Atlanta Braves and Minnesota Twins.
After struggling with the Braves, 45-year old was released by the team with the Mets rumored to be interested in a reunion then as well.
However, he decided to go to the Twins because he feared the Mets would move him to the bullpen once the team’s starters returned from the DL. Of course, in hindsight Colon would have been able to keep his spot for the remainder of the season as the many of the Mets pitchers did not return later that season.
The reason for his discomfort with moving to the bullpen relies on a specific milestone he might achieve this season. Santana touches on it here:
“He just wants to win six more games and then he will retire.”
That is in reference Juan Marichal‘s win record of 243 for Dominican-born players which Colon currently trails with 237 wins.
Colon could prove to be a decently cheap signing for the Mets as Mike Puma hears that Colon has even given the indication he would take a minor-league deal to re-join the team.
“Big Sexy” is only a season removed from being a very effective starting pitcher as he went 15-8 with a 3.43 ERA, 1.21 WHIP, 3.99 FIP, and 128 SO, in 191.2 innings in 2016 when he was still wearing orange-and-blue.
While there are certainly stronger options for the Mets to sign for depth in the rotation, considering the limited cost and his familiar presence in the clubhouse, it might be worthwhile for the Mets to bring back Colon for the 2018 season.
