On Friday night, Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reported that both the New York Mets and Philadelphia Phillies have shown interest in the Texas Rangers lefty Mike Minor.
This certainly makes sense, as the Mets are still seeking a lefty to add to their bullpen. Minor would be a major addition, as he could serve as a left-handed version of swingman Seth Lugo.
However, on Saturday afternoon MLB Trade Rumors reported that talks between the Mets and Rangers have reportedly “stalled” as GM Brodie Van Wagenen isn’t eager to put together the type of package that fits the Rangers asking price.
Earlier in December, TR Sullivan of MLB.com reported that the Mets and Rangers had met at the Winter Meetings. Though specifics were not known at the time, the Rangers were said to be interested in Mets pitching prospects Anthony Kay and David Peterson.
Minor was lights out while pitching out of the Kansas City Royals bullpen in 2017. Over 77 innings, he recorded a 2.55 ERA, 1.01 WHIP, 2.62 FIP, and issued just 22 walks. He was also very effective against opposing lefties, as he limited them to a slash line of .163/.235/.196.
Prior to the 2018 season, Minor singed with the Rangers, and he returned to the starting rotation. Over 28 starts, he went 12-8 with a 4.18 ERA and posted a 3.7 WAR. Under his current contract, Minor is owed around $9 million over each of the next two seasons.
