Ronny Mauricio had a stellar night at the plate, yet a forgettable night in the field for the Tigres del Licey of the Dominican Winter League on Friday night. In just his second game since joining the team, Mauricio went 4-for-4 with a double, a triple, and 2 RBIs but also recorded three errors in the field playing third base. Mauricio appears to have picked right back up from when he won Dominican Winter League MVP last year, however his fielding issues are cause for concern. He has always struggled in the field, despite only recording one error in a month’s worth of games for the Mets last year, but he continues to prove his hitting and slugging ability that the Mets hope will only continue to improve.

Jordan Johnson-USA TODAY Sports

Latest Mets News

The Mets signed reliever Kyle Crick to a minor league deal on Friday, reported first by Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic. While he did not pitch in 2023, he holds a career ERA of 3.56 in 194 total relief appearances.

The Mets made a couple more moves on Friday, announcing that they claimed utilityman Cooper Hummel and catcher Tyler Heineman off waivers. Both players each have a minor league option remaining.

New Mets’ pitcher Luis Severino posted a statement on Instagram saying goodbye to the Yankees organization and his teammates, and posted a separate statement thanking the fans and expressing his excitement to remain in New York.

Latest MLB News

Ben Nicholson-Smith of Sportsnet reported on Friday that Shohei Ohtani‘s free agency is entering its final stretch, and a small group of teams are expected to meet with Ohtani and his representatives this weekend. The Mets are not expected to be in the running anymore, according to ESPN‘s Jeff Passan, as they have turned their attention elsewhere. Passan said the known remaining teams still in the running for Ohtani include the Angels, Cubs, Blue Jays, and Dodgers.

Per Craig Mish of MLB Network, the Marlins hired former Phillies and Giants manager Gabe Kapler to their front office as assistant general manager. Kapler interviewed for the open head of baseball operations job in the Red Sox organization before they hired Craig Breslow to that role. Now, Kapler will work under Miami’s new general manager, Peter Bendix.

Jackson Chourio was in Milwaukee on Friday with his representatives, where his historic contract with the Brewers was nearing its final stages of completion. Adam McCalvy of MLB.com reported that, when completed, the deal will be eight-years, $82 million with two club options and incentives that could max the deal out at over $140 million.

The eighth Hall of Fame ballot was released on Friday, belonging to first-time voter Joe Reedy. Reedy voted for former Mets Carlos Beltrán, Billy Wagner, and Bartolo Colón, while also voting for Adrián Beltré, Todd Helton, Andruw Jones, Joe Mauer, Álex Rodriguez, Gary Sheffield, and Chase Utley. The vote for Colón was the first one he has received.

Latest on MMO

Jack Sargente writes a free agent profile on third baseman Matt Chapman.

Allison Waxman breaks down the Mets’ signing of reliever Austin Adams.

On This Date in Mets History

1991: Bobby Bonilla became the highest paid player in baseball by signing a five-year, $29 million deal with the Mets. His first season in New York was underwhelming by his standards, but he began to live up to the hype in 1993 when he hit a career-high 34 home runs and was an All-Star.

1998: The Mets signed another third baseman to a notable contract, getting Robin Ventura to sign to a four-year deal. Ventura had a fantastic debut season with the Mets, where he recorded 32 home runs and a .908 OPS while winning a Gold Glove and finishing sixth in the MVP race.

Birthdays: Gary Sánchez (31)

The post Morning Briefing: Ronny Mauricio Records Four Hits, Three Errors in Winter Ball appeared first on Metsmerized.

Following a busy Friday that saw the non-tender deadline come and go, the Mets’ 40-man roster currently sits at just 28 players. Before the deadline struck, the Mets announced that they non-tendered pitchers Sam Coonrod, Trevor Gott, and Jeff Brigham, as well as infielder Luis Guillorme and designated hitter Daniel Vogelbach. In addition to these moves, the Mets signed DJ Stewart to a one-year deal to avoid arbitration. He will make $1.38 million in 2024.

With 12 roster spots to fill before the season begins, David Stearns is primed to have a busy offseason where he will be tasked with implementing his vision and building a team that will be competitive in 2024.

Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

Latest Mets News

Eric Chavez, who spent the 2023 season as the Mets’ bench coach, is returning to the role of hitting coach for the 2024 season. Jeremey Barnes, succeeded Chavez as the Mets’ hitting coach in 2023, is also returning to the staff as a co-hitting coach.

Latest MLB News

Buster Olney of ESPN reported that Yoshinobu Yamamoto will be posted for MLB teams on Monday, November 20. He will then have a 45-day window to sign with any MLB team.

There were several players non-tendered on Friday across the league, but most notable was Brandon Woodruff who is expected to miss the 2024 season. Dakota Hudson, Jacob Stallings, Albert Abreu, and Nick Senzel were among some of the other notable names non-tendered.

The Arizona Diamondbacks unveiled new uniforms on Friday, with the most notable change being the color teal becoming a permanent part of their new look.

The Guardians traded pitcher Cal Quantrill to the Rockies in exchange for catcher prospect Kody Huff.

The Braves traded pitcher Nick Anderson to the Royals for cash considerations. The two teams also completed a separate trade, in which pitcher Kyle Wright was sent to Kansas City in exchange for former first round pick Jackson Kowar. Wright is set to miss the 2024 season after undergoing shoulder surgery.

The Yankees traded outfielder Jake Bauers to the Brewers in exchange for minor leaguers Jace Avina and Brian Sánchez.

The Rays traded pitcher Calvin Faucher and utility player Vidal Bruján in exchange for Erick Lara, Andrew Lindsey, and a player to be named later or cash considerations.

The Guardians and Padres swapped relievers, with Cleveland sending San Diego Enyel De Los Santos in exchange for Scott Barlow.

The Red Sox traded infielder Luis Urías to the Mariners in exchange for Isaiah Campbell.

Corbin Burnes joined Foul Territory to talk about why shortening the pitch clock may be a mistake and lead to more injuries. This comes days after MLB’s competition committee proposed to shorten the pitch clock from 20 seconds to 18 seconds when runners are on base.

The Atlanta Braves’ High-A affiliate, formerly known as the Rome Braves, rebranded their team name and image into the Rome Emperors.

Latest on MMO

Michael Mayer analyzes the current betting odds to land Shohei Ohtani this free agency, with the Dodgers and Cubs sitting atop the list.

On the latest MMO Weekly, Michael Mayer and Sal Manzo discuss Carlos Mendoza‘s introductory press conference, among other topics.

On This Date in Mets History

1985: A 21-year-old Dwight Gooden unanimously won the Cy Young Award in just his second big league season. Doc secured a Pitching Triple Crown by leading the majors that year in wins (24), ERA (1.53), and strikeouts (268).

Birthdays: Matt Wise (48), Allen Watson (53), Gary Sheffield (55), Steve Henderson (71), Jay Hook (87)

The post Morning Briefing: Mets’ 40-Man Roster At 28 After Non-Tender Deadline appeared first on Metsmerized.

On Friday, Cuban reliever Yariel Rodríguez was declared a free agent by the MLB Commissioner’s Office and he will now be able to sign with any big league club. According to Francys Romero of MLB.com, the Mets are considered to be among 10 teams who are the strongest candidates to sign Rodríguez. Romero adds that several industry experts expect Rodríguez to command a multi-year contract in the range of $40-70 million.

Rodríguez has impressed big league teams from pitching in Japan (1.15 ERA in 54 2/3 innings in 2022) and with Cuba in the World Baseball Classic (two earned runs in 7 1/3 innings). The Mets are surely expected to be interested in his services this winter with their bullpen needing lots of help.

Yariel Rodriguez, Photo by YUHKI OHBOSHI/TWITTER

Latest Mets News

The Mets announced that single-game 2024 spring training tickets are now on sale.

In an interview with Foul Territory on Friday, Mets’ prospect Kevin Parada said of Steve Cohen: “I genuinely think of it as he’s a Mets super fan who gets to run a ball club. Most of you guys have probably played ‘The Show,’ where you get the franchise and you get to pick your favorite team and just run it however the heck you want to run it. That is Steve Cohen on a real level.”

Parada and another Mets’ prospect in JT Schwartz are playing in the Arizona Fall League All-Star Game. The game will take place on Sunday at 8:00 p.m. ET and will air on MLB Network.

Latest MLB News

Clayton Kershaw announced on Instagram that he underwent left shoulder surgery on Friday. His recovery is expected to keep him out for at least the beginning of the 2024 season.

The MLB Players Association announced that 130 players became free agents at the end of the 2023 season, with a breakdown of players from each team.

Per Jon Heyman of the New York Post, the White Sox declined Liam Hendriks‘ $15 million club option. Hendriks will still be paid $15 million but it will be deferred over time.

The Angels declined the club options of former Mets Aaron Loup and Eduardo Escobar.

The Red Sox declined the club option for Corey Kluber, while Justin Turner declined his player option.

Cody Bellinger declined his mutual option with the Cubs.

According to Kevin Acee of the San Diego Tribune, the Padres are expected to interview Yankees’ bench coach Carlos Mendoza for their manager role. Acee also reports that Matt Carpenter exercised his player option for 2024.

According to Jon Morosi of the New York Post, the Tigers and the agents of Eduardo Rodríguez have remained in contact about potentially restructuring his contract.

Latest on MMO

Michael Mayer breaks down the important dates of the MLB offseason.

Michael Mayer takes a look at the state of the Mets’ 40-man roster following more roster moves on Thursday.

Jack Markowski analyzes how the Texas Rangers built their team into a World Series champion.

On This Date in Mets History

Birthdays: Carlos Mendoza (49), Carlos Baerga (55), Ryan Thompson (56)

The post Morning Briefing: Mets Among Strongest Candidates To Sign Yariel Rodríguez appeared first on Metsmerized.

Position: RP
Age: 29 (4/7/1994)

2023 Traditional Stats: 61 G, 56 1/3 IP, 2-3, 1.28 ERA, 33 SV, 1.101 WHIP, 85 SO, 30 BB
2023 Advanced Stats: 321 ERA+, 36.8 SO%, 13.0 BB%, 2.36 xERA, 2.69 FIP, 3.52 xFIP, 1.7 fWAR, 2.4 bWAR

Rundown

Outside of an inexplicably tumultuous 2022 season, Josh Hader has been one of the most dominant relievers in baseball since he made his debut in 2017. That remained the case in 2023, his first full season as a San Diego Padre. Despite the team as a whole being a major disappointment, Hader was a rare bright spot as he returned to being one of the game’s elite closers.

In 56 1/3 innings pitched, Hader allowed just eight runs all season, which was good for a 1.28 ERA. He also struck out 36.8% of all batters faced, a low mark for him in relation to the rest of his career, and saved 33 games as opposed to just five blown saves. This made him an easy choice to represent the National League in the All-Star game, the fifth All-Star nod of his seven-year career.

The highlight of Hader’s 2023 season was a stretch of 26 games from the beginning of June to the end of August in which he didn’t allow a single earned run. Across the 23 1/3 innings that he pitched in that stretch, Hader struck out 41 batters while allowing just 30 baserunners and holding opposing batters to a ridiculous .456 OPS.

Hader was nearly as impressive over the course of the entire season, allowing a .508 OPS against and recording just two full calendar months with an ERA above 2.00. He had four months with a batting average against under .160 and three months with a slugging percentage against under .160, keeping batters from recording base hits and especially extra-base hits, exactly the type of shutdown stuff you want from your closer.

In addition to the surface-level statistics, Hader’s dominance flashed in the advanced metrics as well. He finished the 2023 season in the 99th percentile or better in xERA, xBA, and SO%. He also posted elite chase rate (92nd percentile), whiff rate (91st percentile), barrel percentage (92nd percentile), and hard hit percentage (97th percentile) numbers.

Those elite numbers are consistent with where Hader has stood his entire career, outside of an abysmal 2022 season split between the Brewers and Padres in which he posted a 5.22 ERA. From 2017 to 2021, the first five years of his career, Hader recorded a 2.26 ERA over 282 1/3 innings pitched and a remarkable 15.1 strikeouts per nine innings. Even during his 2022 season, Hader still struck out 14.6 per nine innings. He can be wild at times, but even at his worst, he still has some of the filthiest swing-and-miss stuff in the game.

Contract

Spotrac.com projects Hader to command a contract in the range of five-years, $87.75 million, which is approximately $17.5 million per year. Regarding average annual salary, that would slot him below only Edwin Díaz ($20.4 million per year) and Liam Hendriks ($18 million per year) for relief pitchers. Hader is only one year older than Díaz was when he signed his mega contract, and it’s not far-fetched to believe that he could threaten Díaz to become the highest-paid relief pitcher in baseball.

Recommendation

With that being said, the Mets shouldn’t go after Josh Hader. While money isn’t a problem for Steve Cohen and new president of baseball operations David Stearns is familiar with Hader from their time in Milwaukee, it just isn’t the best allocation of money to have two relievers making nearly, or more than $100 million. That doesn’t even consider the fact that Hader has resisted pitching in non-save situations and for more than an inning at a time in the past.

Another roadblock in a potential Hader signing is that he is eligible to receive a qualifying offer from the Padres. If he received the qualifying offer and the Mets were to sign him, the Mets would be forfeiting a draft pick, which would go against the way Steve Cohen and David Stearns are trying to build the Mets. Ultimately, the Mets should look elsewhere to bolster their bullpen this offseason.

The post MMO Free Agent Profile: Josh Hader, LHP appeared first on Metsmerized.

Position: OF
Bats/Throws: R/R
Age: 31 (10/15/1992)

2023 Traditional Stats: 160 G, 678 PA, .258/.305/.435/.741, 26 HR, 29 2B, 93 RBI, 161 H
2023 Advanced Stats: 106 OPS+, 105 wRC+, 2.1 bWAR, 1.7 fWAR, 31.1 SO%, 5.6 BB%, .342 BABIP, .336 xwOBA, 1 DRS, 0 OAA

Rundown

Teoscar Hernández played his 2023 season with the Seattle Mariners, his first year on the team following parts of six seasons with the Toronto Blue Jays. Before the Blue Jays, Hernández began his career with limited at-bats as an Astro after signing with the club as an international free agent in 2011. Now 31, Hernández has spent parts of eight years in the big leagues and will be a free agent for the first time in his career.

Hernández has been one of the most consistent bats in baseball over the last several years, as he has slugged more than 20 home runs in five of the last six seasons. The only season he didn’t was in the shortened 2020 season, and even then, he hit 16 homers in 50 games, a 52-home run pace over a full 162-game season.

That 2020 season was really a breakout year for Hernández, even though he had already been an important bat for Toronto. In 2018 and 2019, his first two full years in Toronto, he hit a combined 48 homers but only batted .235 with a .774 OPS across those two seasons. In 2020, however, Hernández’s 50-home run pace, .289 average, and .919 OPS in 50 games really put him on the map for those who didn’t know him already. During that shortened season, Hernández received his first career Silver Slugger award and even some down-ballot MVP votes, finishing in 11th place.

Hernández set out in 2021 to prove that his strong 2020 wasn’t a fluke or the result of a 60-game season, and he did exactly that. During the 2021 season, Hernández became an All-Star for the first time, setting career-highs in batting average (.296), on-base percentage (.346), home runs (32), RBIs (116), and hits (163). Hernández once again earned a Silver Slugger award, the second of his career, and more down-ballot MVP votes, this time finishing in 19th place.

2022 was a bit of a regression for Hernández, but he still turned in a quality year with 25 home runs and an .807 OPS. A disappointing postseason exit for the Blue Jays and a desire from the front office to tweak the roster made Hernández available for trade following the season, and the Seattle Mariners swooped in to acquire Hernández in exchange for pitchers Erik Swanson and Adam Macko.

Hernández’s 2023 season was even more of a regression, but once again, he still proved to be a serviceable bat in the Mariners’ lineup. He drove in 93 runs, the second-highest mark of his career, while hitting 23 homers and recording a so-so .741 OPS, the lowest mark of his career over a full season. Perhaps the biggest reason for his regression at the plate is that he recorded, by far, the most strikeouts of his career with 211. The next highest total had come in 2018 when he struck out 163 times.

The advanced metrics give more insight into who Hernández has been as a player throughout his career and how he looked last year as well. According to Statcast, Hernández was near the bottom of the league in terms of chase rate (13th percentile), whiff rate (3rd percentile), and strikeout rate (9th percentile) in 2023, rankings which have been consistent throughout his career. On the other hand, Hernández was near the top of the league in average exit velocity (81st percentile), barrel percentage (88th percentile), and hard-hit percentage (90th percentile), which have also been consistent throughout his career. Hernández swings and misses a lot, and his strikeout rate in 2023 is certainly cause for concern, but when he makes contact with the ball he can do serious damage.

Defensively, Hernández has been an average-at-best outfielder throughout his career. He has played in all three outfield positions before, but has spent the most time in right field. In 2023, he recorded one defensive run saved and zero outs above average, both the highest marks of his career. At age 31, it’s hard to believe that his defense will improve anymore, so getting average defense is likely the best a team that will sign him can hope for.

Contract

According to Spotrac.com, Teoscar Hernández is believed to have a market value of $16.5 million. The site projects him to earn a contract of four years for about $66 million. When looking at some of the free agent outfield signings from recent years, such as Michael Conforto (two-year, $36 million), Mitch Haniger (three-year, $43.5 million), and Andrew Benintendi (five-year, $75 million), Hernández certainly could get a contract in the four-year, $66 million range if not more than that. He has demonstrated, even with regression last year, that he is a consistently valuable player and would be a welcome addition to any team’s lineup.

Recommendation

From the Mets’ point of view, it might not be smart to sign Teoscar Hernández when Starling Marte is supposed to be the right fielder for the next two years. But if you’re looking to compete in 2024, can you trust Marte to stay healthy? And if he is healthy, can you trust him to produce? It wouldn’t be smart by any means for the Mets to pencil Marte in as the right fielder for 2024.

With Hernández, you have a player that you really don’t have to worry about injury history. He has played at least 120 games in every full season since he was a big league player, including 160 just last year. Hernández has been one of the most consistent batters in the league throughout his career and is someone you can count on to hit 20-plus home runs each year. Though he strikes out a lot, there’s no doubt that he can be valuable to whatever lineup he’s part of.

That said, it will be up to David Stearns to see if he deems Hernández a fit. Hernández is on the wrong side of 30 and has already regressed each of the last two years. Would he be more valuable than Marte in right field? Could he potentially occupy the designated hitter spot? Does he have a role at all on the team? Stearns will have to answer all of these questions, but he should certainly reach out and see what the interest level is. If Hernández is a good fit and an upgrade over Marte, offer him a contract. If you think his best days are behind him and more regression is imminent, move in another direction.

The post MMO Free Agent Profile: Teoscar Hernández, OF appeared first on Metsmerized.

Credit: Stan Szeto-USA TODAY Sports

Position: LHP
Bats/Throws: R/L
Age: 6/17/1990 (32)

Traditional Stats: 64 G, 2-3, 2.83 ERA, 1.169 WHIP, 67 K, 57.1 IP
Advanced Stats: 0.9 fWAR, 3.06 FIP, 2.92 xERA, 7.8 BB%, 27.6 K%

Rundown

Andrew Chafin was drafted in the first round of the 2011 MLB Draft by the Arizona Diamondbacks. He began his career as a starter and after a few successful minor league campaigns, received a cup of coffee in the big leagues towards the end of 2014.

He was quickly transformed into more of a reliever the next season, and he ended up having a very solid year. Chafin made 66 appearances out of the Diamondbacks bullpen and posted a 2.76 ERA, 1.14 WHIP, and 58 strikeouts over 75 innings.

Like most of the 69-93 Diamondbacks, Chafin struggled the following year. He made just 32 appearances and posted a 6.75 ERA, 1.45 WHIP, and had 28 strikeouts over 22 innings. Despite the struggles, Chafin allowed just one home run on the season.

The southpaw bounced back in 2017 with a 71 appearance campaign. He allowed just five home runs, issued just 11 walks, and struck out 61 batters while posting a 3.51 ERA in 51 innings.

He made 77 appearances each of the next two seasons, pitched to a combined 3.44 ERA, 1.33 WHIP, 2.96 FIP, and struck out 121 batters. With the three batter rule being put into place, Chafin struggled during their first half of the 2020 season.

He was traded to the Cubs at the deadline, where he put together a decent small sample size. He re-signed with Chicago on a one-year, $2.25 million deal with a mutual option for this season during the offseason.

Chafin returned to his old dominant form during the first half of the year. He was again traded at the deadline, this time to the Oakland Athletics, where he continued his strong 2021 campaign.

He finished the year with 70+ appearances again (71) and posted a career-low 1.83 ERA. He also recorded a 0.93 WHIP, 2.98 FIP, 64 strikeouts, issued 19 walks, and allowed just four home runs.

Coming off another strong year he entered free agency. He chose to sign a one-year $6.5 million deal with a player option for 2023 with the Detroit Tigers. The Mets were rumored to be interested.

He relies on four pitches; low-90s sinker, low-90s fastball, mid-80s slider, and mid-80s changeup.

Contract

Back in November, MLB Trade Rumors projected Chagin to get a two-year, $18 million deal. Chafin is coming off the two best seasons of his career and is currently the top lefty on the market.

Chafin’s market has been slow to develop. He initially came out saying he’d be interested in a return to Detroit and not much buzz has been generated since. It’s possible that teams are waiting for the 60-Day IL designations to open up spots on their 40-man roster to sign a player like Chafin.

The Mets are clearly ready to spend for top-of-the-line bullpen help but finding a proper late-inning role for him won’t be as easy with the money he eventually demands.

Recommendation

Should the Mets sign Chafin? Yes. Will they? Likely, no. It’s unfortunate but looking at their projected bullpen, there are no “late-inning” roles open with Edwin Diaz, Adam Ottavino, David Robertson, and Brooks Raley lined up.

Although only two lefties – Raley and David Peterson – are estimated to be in the pen right now, the addition of Chafin would make the Mets bullpen a demonstrable force.

Chafin’s name has circled the Mets for what feels like an eternity. At every free agency period or trade deadline, his name has popped up in talks. The Mets just seem hesitant to pull the trigger.

The Mets expect the return of left Joey Lucchesi to the pen after undergoing Tommy John surgery. Is that good enough a reason to not build out what could be the best bullpen in baseball? No. Nor is it what fans want to hear. Chafin should be a Met with the scarcity of left-handed relief help on the market but he doesn’t seem like the player even Steve Cohen is willing to break the bank again and again for.

The post MMO Free Agent Profile: Andrew Chafin appeared first on Metsmerized.

Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

The Mets have done well to keep their bullpen strong this offseason. In addition to re-signing Edwin Díaz and Adam Ottavino, the team brought in veteran David Robertson, as well as lefty Brooks Raley from Tampa Bay. Additionally, the team has bolstered its depth by acquiring several lower-level relievers like Elieser Hernández and Zach Greene.

The Mets, as it stands, should have a competitive bullpen, but you can never have too many arms. To account for injuries, possible regression from some players, and the loss of Seth Lugo and Trevor May, the Mets may look to add another reliever or too before the start of the season.  In fact, Billy Eppler said on Tuesday that the Mets were “engaged” in the free agent bullpen market.

Here are some of the players the Mets could still target at this point in the offseason.

Zack Britton

The Mets have been linked to former Orioles closer Zack Britton for much of the offseason. Britton, who previously played for Buck Showalter in Baltimore, is not the dominant force he once was and has pitched just 38 innings since 2020, but could still provide value in the right situation. The Mets would be hoping Britton can return to health and rediscover his old form.

Michael Fulmer

Former Mets prospect Michael Fulmer would be a solid pickup to bolster the New York bullpen. Fulmer transitioned from a starting pitching role into a relief one in 2021 and has turned his career around. Fulmer pitched to a 3.39 ERA last season with the Tigers and Twins and was even better in the 2021 season. Fulmer is also still only 29-years-old.

Andrew Chafin

Many thought Andrew Chafin would be an option for the Mets last season, but they ended up trading for Joely Rodriguez to serve as the team’s lefty instead to poor results. Chafin was his usually solid self in Detroit last season pitching to a 2.83 ERA while walking 19 and striking out 67. Chafin is one of the most realistic options for the Mets, and Jon Heyman of the New York Post reported Wednesday that New York was among the teams interested.

Brad Hand

Former Met Brad Hand was a solid contributor to the Phillies bullpen last season but is still without a home for the 2023 season. Hand was impressive in his short stint in Queens in 2021 and is a veteran lefty with late-inning experience. Hand compiled a 2.80 ERA last season in Philly with an ERA+ of 146.

Will Smith

Just two years ago, Will Smith saved 37 games for the World Series champion Braves. Last season was a step down for Smith, though he did win his second straight championship after being traded to the Astros for Jake Odorizzi. Smith pitched in 65 total games a year ago with a 3.97 ERA and a 102 ERA+.

Aroldis Chapman

Seeing Aroldis Chapman in blue and orange would be bizarre, and his off-the-field history alone could be reason enough for the Mets to steer clear. Still, while Chapman is far from the pitcher he was when he signed a five-year, $86 million deal with the Yankees, he could still prove to be an effective reliever if he rediscovers his stuff, and his confidence.

Corey Knebel

Corey Knebel was the Phillies closer early in the 2022 season but he suffered through numerous injuries and ended up missing the entire postseason run. Knebel is a buy-low option who may not even be healthy for the start of the season but could come in handy if he can stay on the field later in the season.

Alex Colomé

Alex Colomé didn’t exactly have a career year last season in Colorado, pitching to a 5.74 ERA in 47 innings. Still, he may be worth taking a flyer on. Colomé had a 0.81 ERA in the shortened 2020 season for the White Sox and has saved as many as 37 games in his career. It’s possible he’s in line for a bounceback season once he gets away from Coors Field and would make for a solid middle-innings option for Epplerand the Mets.

Other

Aside from the names listed, other options include Ian Kennedy, Trevor Rosenthal, Alex Reyes, Archie Bradley, Matt Moore, Justin Wilson, and Bryan Shaw.

The post Bullpen Arms Still Available in Free Agency appeared first on Metsmerized.

David Peralta

Position: OF
Bats/Throws: L/L
Age: 35 (8/14/1987)
2022 Traditional Stats: 134 G, 490 PA, .251/.316/.415/.731, 12 HR, 30 2B, 59 RBI, 110 H
2022 Advanced Stats: 109 OPS+, 104 wRC+, 0.7 bWAR, 1.7 fWAR, 8.4 BB%, 23.3 K%, .307 BABIP, .313 xwOBA, -5 DRS, 5 OAA

Rundown

David Peralta has been one of the most under-appreciated players in Major League Baseball for nearly a decade. In his career he has never been an All-Star and has played for Diamondbacks teams and a 2022 Rays team that can most aptly be described as underwhelming and disappointing. With just one Silver Slugger award and one Gold Glove award in nine years in the league you would think he hasn’t had a big impact, but that simply isn’t true.

Since he made his major league debut in 2014, Peralta has a career OPS just under .800 and in only one full season has he had an OPS+ below 100. He was mostly productive last year in his age-34 season, in which he posted a .731 OPS and a 109 OPS+. These numbers are negatively skewed due to a poor stint with the Rays, whom he joined at the trade deadline. Before this trade, Peralta enjoyed a productive half-season with the Diamondbacks where he put up a .777 OPS and a 118 OPS+.

Peralta’s numbers show that he has been a reliable contact hitter throughout his career, eclipsing a .285 batting average in five of his nine seasons. He has also flashed power at times, blasting a career-high 30 home runs in 2018 and in 2022 he hit at a rate of 22 home runs over a full 162 games before his trade to the Rays in July.

In 47 games with Tampa Bay, though, he failed to register any home runs and posted a less-than-ideal .652 OPS. Whether this struggle was due to a failure to acclimate to a new environment, age catching up to him, or another unknown factor is unclear.

What is clear is that Peralta’s performance has declined the past two seasons. His last two OPS totals of .731 and .728 are below his career OPS of .796 and he has only hit 20 home runs in his last 1000-plus plate appearances. Additionally, his batting average, on-base percentage, and walk-to-strikeout ratio in 2022 were all the lowest of his career over a full season. This late in his career, can he turn it around? Teams interested in his services will have to answer that question for themselves.

Contract

Spotrac.com believes Peralta has a market value of $8.3 million, which they estimate he will receive on a one-year deal. This valuation feels reasonable, though it’s possible he might not even make that much. A.J. Pollock signed a one-year, $7 million deal this offseason, and it can easily be argued he’s the better and more valuable player of the two. Because Peralta is turning 36 this August and has shown a decline in his performance, he may have to settle for a cheaper deal wherever he goes.

Recommendation

It’s no secret that the Mets are in need of, and are looking for, a fourth outfielder. Even with Andrew McCutchen now off the board, there are plenty of options out there that are on-par with, or better than, Peralta. Adam Duvall and Tommy Pham are names that have been linked to the Mets who might be better fits for the team. Duvall and Pham are also known for their prowess against southpaw pitchers, a skill that the Mets are desperate for that they wouldn’t receive with Peralta, a lefty himself.

The Mets should focus on the names listed above before they consider signing Peralta. They could certainly do worse if they land him as a fourth outfielder, but there are better fits for the team and what it is looking for at the moment.

The post MMO Free Agent Profile: David Peralta, OF appeared first on Metsmerized.

Francisco Álvarez and Daiverson Gutierrez

Good morning, Mets fans!

The 2023 International Free Agency period began yesterday and the Mets were active on the market. They inked three players ranked in Baseball America’s top 40 players list: 17-year-old catcher Daiverson Gutierrez of Venezuela (No. 20), Venezuelan shortstop Christopher Larez (No. 25), and Dominican outfielder Anthony Baptist. The team also signed Cuban left-handed pitchers Daviel Hurtado and Wilmer Lugo. MMO’s Mike Mayer reports that Gutierrez received the heftiest signing bonus at $1.9 million, with Larez receiving $1.5 million and Baptist getting $1.1 million. Francys Romero of MLB.com reports that Hurtado received a bonus of $640,000.

Latest Mets News

Steve Cohen and his wife Alex met up with Justin Verlander and Kate Upton for dinner last night, according to Alex Cohen’s Instagram story. Alex said in her caption that the two parties had a great time getting to know each other.

Justin Verlander and Kate Upton met with Steve and Alex Cohen for dinner tonight

(via tiaalexnymets/IG) pic.twitter.com/TzAb72ldRa

— SNY Mets (@SNY_Mets) January 16, 2023

Latest MLB News

Lewis Brinson has signed with the Yomiuri Giants of NPB for the 2023 season, the team announced. Once ranked as high as 18th in Baseball America’s Top 100 Prospects list, Brinson has accumulated -3.6 rWAR and hit just .198/.246/.328 with 28 homers and 327 strikeouts in 1,150 MLB plate appearances. However, he hit well in the minors in 2022, hitting .298/.356/.556 with 22 homers in 373 plate appearances split between the Triple-A affiliates of the Giants and Astros.

The Rangers have inked first baseman and outfielder Yoshi Tsutsugo to a minor-league contract, Evan Grant of the Dallas Morning News reports. Tsutsugo was unable to build off his strong finish to the 2021 season, hitting just .171/.249/.229 in 193 plate appearances before the Pirates released him in August. However, he posted a strong .301/.422/.520 batting line in 154 Triple-A plate appearances.

Latest on MMO

Mathias Altman-Kurosaki profiles free-agent outfielder Tommy Pham.

Andrew Steele-Davis writes about why the Carlos Correa saga shouldn’t define the Mets’ offseason.

Ross Bentley looks at who will play third base for the Mets after the 2023 season.

On This Date in Mets History

1986: The Mets send former first-round pick Billy Beane to the Twins along with pitchers Joe Klink and Bill Latham in exchange for infielder Tim Teufel and outfielder Pat Crosby. Teufel finished fourth in the AL Rookie of the Year voting in 1984, while Beane registered just 18 at-bats in the majors between 1984-85.

2002: The Mets sign veteran righty Pedro Astacio to a two-year contract. The 33-year-old endured a tough 3.5-year stint with the Rockies, but he finished the 2001 season strong with a 3.14 ERA in four starts with the Astros.

2020: After being the only player named in the report of the Astros cheating investigation, Carlos Beltrán and the Mets mutually agree to part ways. This comes just two months after Beltrán signed a three-year contract to become the team’s new skipper, and he becomes the third manager to lose his job as a result of the scandal, with Alex Cora and A.J. Hinch both getting fired a few days earlier.

The post Morning Briefing: Mets Sign Five International Free Agents appeared first on Metsmerized.

Tommy Pham

Position: OF

Bats/Throws: R/R

Age: 34 (03/08/1988)

2022 Traditional Stats: 144 G, .236/.312/.374, 17 HR, 23 2B, 63 RBI, 131 H

2022 Advanced Stats: 87 OPS+, 89 wRC+, 0.4 rWAR, 0.6 fWAR, .304 BABiP, 9.0% BB%, 26.9% K%, .311 xwOBA, 0 DRS, -6 OAA

Rundown

In his age-34 season, Tommy Pham had the worst full season of his life. He had the highest strikeout rate of his career while setting career lows in walk rate, on-base percentage, slugging percentage, ISO, xBA, xSLG, xwOBA, and xwOBACON. Excluding the pandemic-shortened 2020 season, Pham had never recorded an OPS+ below 103 or a wRC+ below 102, but he recorded marks of just 87 and 89, respectively, in 2022.

However, some metrics show that Pham could be due for a bounce-back in 2023. His average-exit velocity jumped back up to 92.2 MPH, which ranked in the 93rd percentile of the league and is a solid increase from his 90.8-MPH mark in 2021. Also, his hard-hit rate jumped from 47.6% to 48.2%, which pegged him in the 89th percentile.

After struggling against fastballs in 2021, Pham registered a solid plus-9 run value and a 62.1% hard-hit rate against heaters in 2022. Pham was still effective against lefties too, recording a .273/.338/.446 batting line in 154 plate appearances against southpaws.

Defensively, Pham only played left field and nearly identical metrics to his 2021 numbers, with 0 DRS and negative-6 OAA. His arm strength improved though, increasing his average velocity on his throws from 86.0 MPH to 88.4.

Lastly, while his foot speed isn’t as fast as it used to be, Pham still rates as an above-average base runner with 1.9 BsR and swiping eight bases in 11 tries.

Tommy Pham. David Kohl-USA TODAY Sports

Contract

Spotrac projects Pham to sign a two-year contract worth $16.7 million this off-season. He made $6 million this past season before the Red Sox bought out his contract at the end of the year.

Considering that Andrew McCutchen only received $5 million from the Pirates, and that Pham is coming off the worst season of his career, it’s hard to envision him getting a pay raise or more than a one-year deal.

However, he could provide to value to teams as a right-handed bench bat who can start once or twice a week to give other players some rest. Considering that he still has some speed too, Pham could get some shots as a pinch-runner in late-game situations.

Recommendation

The Mets have been searching for right-handed bats and a fourth outfielder for quite some time now, and Pham presents another intriguing option. He may not have another 20-20 season, or put up over 6.0 WAR again, but he could provide the depth they need.

If he’s willing to accept a bench role and take a one-year contract, Pham would be a solid signing for the team. He hits the ball hard, doesn’t chase and generates walks, and is a decent baserunner. All the tools to be a solid fourth outfielder and bench bat.

The post MMO Free Agent Profile: Tommy Pham, OF appeared first on Metsmerized.