Photo courtesy of the Japan Times

Miles Mikolas

Position: Pitcher

Bats: Right- Throws: Right

Date of Birth: August 23, 1988 (29)

2017 Japan Stats: 27 GS, 14-8 Record, 188 IP, 2.25 ERA, 0.984 WHIP, 0.5 HR/9, 1.1 BB/9, 187 SO

Miles Mikolas has gone from a mediocre pitcher most known for a YouTube bet, to a very intriguing candidate to be on any team this winter.

The 29-year-old made his debut in 2012 with the San Diego Padres and had a 3.62 ERA (101 ERA+) in 32 1/3 innings that year. He struggled the following year before heading to Texas where they tried stretching him out as a starter. Mikolas posted a 6.44 ERA (62 ERA+) in 57 1/3 innings.

The Jupiter, Florida native went across the Pacific and pitched in Japan for the Yomiuri Giants in 2015. Mikolas posted earned run averages of 1.92, 2.45 and 2.25 the past three years respectively. While he struggled with control in the Majors, he had shown remarkable control in the minors and even in his stint as a starter in 2014. Mikolas continued that trend in Japan where he walked very few and started striking out more hitters.

As a reliever in 2013 he averaged 94 MPH on his fastball compared to 92.7 MPH as a starter in 2014. It would not be surprising to learn that he has figured a few things out and could carry his success to the MLB level given his stuff.

The Mets would not be alone in a Mikolas “sweepstakes.” The Texas Rangers could be interested in a reunion with the righty according to T.R. Sullivan of MLB.com.

“According to one scouting report, Mikolas throws 92-93 mph with a good curve, cutter and slider,” wrote Sullivan. “He also throws strikes with few walks, which is high on the list of the Rangers’ pitching priorities.”

He will not be someone who goes under the radar and will possibly command a decent Major League deal despite not having a great MLB track record.

Contract:

MLB Trade Rumors predicts a two year, $10 million deal for Mikolas. They noted “It’s difficult to gauge exactly what type of contract he can command, but the righty’s terrific results there should lead to Major League offers as clubs hope to catch lightning in a bottle to fill out the back half of their rotations.”

Recommendation:

I see no reason why the Mets should not be in on him. He’s a low risk, decent upside type signing they should consider. I think he would be in their budget and will be a good fit especially if they want an arm in their rotation.