The New York Mets Triple-A affiliate ready for their second game of the season on Sunday. Saturday’s game was rained out, and on Friday, Syracuse’s first game of the season, the Triple-A Mets defeated Worcester 4-3, courtesy of five sparkling innings (one hit, one run, five strikeouts) from Blade Tidwell.

New York’s top pitching prospect is set to pitch on Sunday. Brandon Sproat will hope to improve on some Triple-A struggles last season, after posting a 1.07 ERA in High-A and a 2.45 ERA in Double-A. Across 28 2/3 Triple-A innings to end the season, Sproat had a 7.53 ERA and only struck out 21.

Most notably, former Mets pitching prospect is set to go for the Worcester Red Sox. Michael Fulmer was drafted back in 2011 by New York. Worcester also has former Syracuse Met Trayce Thompson in their lineup on Sunday.

Syracuse Lineup

1. Donovan Walton, SS
2. Luis De Los Santos, 3B
3. Billy McKinney, DH
4. Joey Meneses, 1B
5. Luke Ritter, 2B
6. Travis Swaggerty, RF
7. Gilberto Celestino, LF
8. Chris Williams, C
9. Omar De Los Santos, CF

Worcester Lineup

1. Roman Anthony, CF
2. Nick Sogard, 3B
3. Marcelo Mayer, SS
4. Trayce Thompson, LF
5. Vaughn Grissom, 2B
6. Abraham Toro, DH
7. Nathan Hickey, 1B
8. Seby Zavala, C
9. Nate Eaton, RF

Games Notes

Worcester starting pitcher, Michael Fulmer, was a first-round selection of the New York Mets back in 2011. Fulmer was then traded by the Mets to the Detroit Tigers, along with Luis Cessa, in exchange for outfielder Yoenis Cespedes.

Saturday’s originally scheduled game was postponed due to weather. The game will be made up as a part of a doubleheader in late April when Syracuse returns to Worcester for another series.

The post Mets Minors Game Chat: Syracuse vs. Worcester, 1:05 PM. appeared first on Metsmerized.

Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

Good morning, Mets fans!

On Friday, Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reported that the Cubs have signed Michael Fulmer to an undisclosed contract. The former Mets minor leaguer was traded to the Tigers as part of the Yoenis Céspedes trade and remained an integral part of the Detroit bullpen until he was shipped off to the Twins at the trade deadline this past year. Between these two AL Central teams he recorded a 3.82 ERA in 67 games. Mets fans clamored to acquire Fulmer at the trade deadline and again as a free agent this offseason, but he now heads to Chicago as the Cubs continue their busy offseason.

Now onto the morning briefing!

Latest Mets News

In a video posted on SNY‘s Twitter account, Eduardo Escobar expressed excitement about being back with the Mets in 2023, stating “I love it here.”

Khalil Lee has cleared waivers and has been sent outright to Triple-A Syracuse. Lee was designated for assignment this past week amidst assault allegations.

Latest MLB News

MLB Pipeline took a look at some of MLB’s top prospects in this year’s World Baseball Classic. Sal Frelick, Harry Ford, and Bo Naylor are the participants in MLB’s top 100 prospects, while several other players sit in their respective team’s Top 30.

Commissioner Rob Manfred said at a recent owners’ meeting that the league is prepared to take over local broadcasts for the teams whose rights belong to Bally Sports. There is concern that Diamond Sports Group, the company that operates Bally Sports, will not be able to make the necessary payments for the fourteen teams it holds the rights to.

The Astros signed pitcher Cristian Javier to a five-year, $64 million contract extension that includes a $2 million signing bonus.

The Dodgers signed outfielder David Peralta to a one-year, $6.5 million contract, with incentives that can take the deal up to $8 million.

Yasiel Puig and renowned attorney Ben Crump will address federal charges against Puig today in Los Angeles. Crump calls the charges, relating to illegal sports gambling, “erroneous.” Puig originally plead guilty as part of a plea deal but has since withdrawn from that deal.

Former major league first baseman Justin Bour announced his retirement from baseball.

Jack Harris of the LA Times wrote a piece on Mookie Betts‘ passion for bowling and how it helps him during MLB’s offseason.

Latest on MMO

Rich Sparago broke down how the pitch clock will work in MLB this year.

Brian Wright rated Vince Coleman as the worst free-agent signing in Mets history.

Ricky Keeler profiled Mets’ Non-Roster Invitee Hayden Senger.

Rivka Boord listed the top five questions facing the Mets heading into the 2023 season.

On This Date in Mets History

1987: Coming off a memorable World Series victory in which he won World Series MVP, Ray Knight left the Mets in free agency and signed with the Baltimore Orioles. He became the first player to win World Series MVP and switch teams the following offseason.

2o10: The Mets signed Hisanori Takahashi, who had been playing professionally in Nippon Professional Baseball, to a minor league contract. In his lone season with the Mets Takahashi served as both a starter and a reliever, taking over the closer role after Francisco Rodriguez became injured. He pitched to a 10-6 record with a 3.61 ERA with the Mets that year.

Birthdays: Brian Daubach (51)

The post Morning Briefing: Michael Fulmer Signs With Cubs 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.

Edwin Díaz. Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

Entering free agency and the off-season, two areas of the Mets’ roster needed to be completely rebuilt. The first was the rotation, and the other, the bullpen. Apparently, general manager Billy Eppler and the front office were well aware of the need to rebuild the ‘pen as they have already added several pieces. Though, despite that, when projecting out how the bullpen currently stands, it is clear that New York should continue to add to the unit.

What Have They Done So Far?

The team re-signed the best closer in baseball, Edwin Díaz, to a monster five-year, $102-million deal. They also brought in the likes of David Robertson (free agency) and left-hander Brooks Raley (trade), as well as re-signed Adam Ottavino.

New York also made several other minor additions that should help bring depth or potentially fill a remaining hole in the bullpen with a strong spring. These additions consist of Jeff Brigham, Stephen Ridings, and Tayler Saucedo. The team also brought in former starter Elieser Hernández, who could potentially be used out of the ‘pen.

How Does The Bullpen Currently Project?

Normally, teams usually carry around seven-to-eight relief pitchers on their roster. As it currently stands, the bullpen looks as such:

• Closer: Edwin Díaz
• Set-Up: David Robertson
• 7th-8th Inning: Adam Ottavino
• Middle Relief: Drew Smith
• Left-Handed Option: Brooks Raley
• Long-Relief/Spot-Starter: David Peterson / Joey Lucchesi / Elieser Hernández

This leaves one or two more spots to be filled. Could the Mets just opt to stick internally and fill out the remainder of the bullpen that way? Potentially. If so, what would their options be?

John Curtiss. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

Remaining Internal Options

As mentioned, the Mets brought in a plethora of outside talent that may be able to win a spot in the bullpen out of camp. These consist of the aforementioned Jeff Brigham, Stephen Ridings, and Tayler Saucedo.

Brigham had a nice season in Miami last year, posting a 3.38 ERA and 3.65 FIP across 24 innings. Meanwhile, Ridings was injured most of the season, but has shown high-strikeout potential (42 strikeouts in 29 minor-league innings in 2021). Additionally, Saucedo has always struggled in the big leagues as a left-handed specialist (5.40 career ERA in 28 1/3 innings)

Familiar faces the Mets can turn to consist of Tylor Megill, John Curtiss, Stephen Nogosek, or Bryce Montes de Oca. Megill has history as a starter, but his pitch makeup might make him a better fit as a reliever. Though, when the Mets tried that last season, it did not go well. Meanwhile, Nogosek (career 5.35 FIP across 31 2/3 major-league innings) and Montes de Oca (four runs and seven hits across 3 1/3 innings last season) appeared in the major leagues for the Mets last season as well.

Curtiss is an intriguing option, as the Mets signed him in 2021 knowing he would not participate in 2022 given his rehabilitation from Tommy John surgery. Throughout his career, Curtiss has served as a back-end of the bullpen arm, and has done so well. He owns a 3.63 career ERA and 3.79 career FIP across 86 2/3 career innings pitched.

Do The Mets Really Need More?

Here are how the bullpens of the 10 most recent World Series champions ranked in the regular season based on ERA:

• 2022: Houston Astros – 1st
• 2021: Atlanta Braves – 12th (3rd in the postseason)
• 2020: Los Angeles Dodgers – 2nd
• 2019: Washington Nationals – 29th
• 2018: Boston Red Sox – 8th (2nd in the postseason)
• 2017: Houston Astros – 17th
• 2016: Chicago Cubs – 9th 
• 2015: Kansas City Royals – 2nd
• 2014: San Francisco Giants – 5th
• 2013: Boston Red Sox – 21st
• 2012: San Francisco Giants – 15th

Bottom-line, unless your are the 2013 Boston Red Sox or the 2019 Washington Nationals, World Series winning teams and stellar bullpens are directly correlated over the past 10 seasons. The average rank of the above team’s ERA over the past 10 years is around 12th. Take out the two outliers (’13 Red Sox and ’19 Nationals) that average jumps to around 9th.

It is no secret, great teams have great bullpens. As it stands, on paper, it is fair to say the Mets’ bullpen is good. Though, given the remaining couple holes, the word “great” should not apply yet. Add at least one more external arm, and it would not be crazy to call the Mets’ projected 2023 bullpen as one of the league’s best.

Andrew Chafin. Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports

External Options

Despite being deep into the off-season, there are still a plethora of solid bullpen arms remaining on the market. Some of those potential options are below:

Andrew Chafin

Chafin is someone that has been tied to the Mets for a while. He would give New York another strong, reliable left-handed arm in their bullpen. Opposing left-handed hitters own a lifetime .222 batting average and .603 OPS against Chafin.

Michael Fulmer

The 2011 Mets’ first-round pick has emerged as a reliable reliever. In his first season as a full-time reliever, Fulmer posted a 3.39 ERA and 3.57 FIP across 63 2/3 innings last season.

Matt Moore

Used as a pure reliever for the first time, the left-handed Moore may have revitalized his career last season. Across 74 innings, he posted an absurd 1.95 ERA. Moore’s FIP of 2.98 shows he was legit. He also saw an increase in his strikeout rate (83 across 74 innings) and held opposing left-handed hitters to a .634 OPS.

David Phelps

The former Miami Marlins’ starting pitcher turned in a career year as a reliever last season with Toronto. He was a workhorse, appearing in 65 games. Across the 63 2/3 innings he threw, he posted a 2.83 ERA and 3.16 FIP.

Luke Jackson

Jackson turned in a career year with rival Atlanta Braves last season. He posted a career-best 1.98 ERA and struck out 70 over 63 2/3 innings. He does own a career FIP of almost 4.00, but has three solid seasons under his belt.

Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports

Brad Hand

In 2021, the Mets claimed Hand off waivers and he pitched to a 2.70 ERA in 16 games for them that season. Last year, he played well with Philadelphia posting a 2.80 ERA and 3.93 FIP across 45 innings. He is another potential second left-handed option for the Mets’ bullpen to add.

Other Options: Alex Reyes, Corey Knebel, Will Smith

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Mets’ front office has done a great job of rebuilding the bullpen thus far. They are certainly on the right track, though, adding one more arm would make a comfortably above-average bullpen into a great one. Luckily for them, as the above outlines, there are still several solid options on the market that would easily be an upgrade over what their options are currently internally.

The post Mets Need To Continue To Add To The Bullpen appeared first on Metsmerized.

Michael Fulmer

Player Data: Age: 29 (3/15/93)
B/T: R/R

Traditional Stats: 67 G, 63.2 IP, 5-6, 3.39 ERA, 1.366 WHIP, 61 SO, 28 BB
Advanced Stats: 113 ERA+, 22.1 K%, 10.1 BB%, 3.78 xERA, 3.57 FIP, 0.8 bWAR, 0.7 fWAR

Rundown

As the Mets plug any remaining holes this offseason, New York could look to a former farmhand to bolster its bullpen.

Michael Fulmer, who has spent most of his career with the Detroit Tigers, was traded by the Mets as the centerpiece of the deal that brought Yoenis Céspedes to Flushing back in 2015.

After dealing with various injuries throughout his career, Fulmer has rebounded to become a reliable arm out of the bullpen, a bit of a different trajectory for a former starter that was named the American League’s Rookie of the Year in 2016, as well as an All-Star in both 2016 and 2017.

Fulmer made 24 starts in 2018, but his ERA ballooned up to 4.69. He ended up undergoing Tommy John surgery that offseason, which forced him to miss the entirety of 2019. Returning as a starter during a COVID-shortened 2020 season, Fulmer made 10 starts and pitched to an 8.08 ERA.

A move to the bullpen would change the trajectory of a once-promising career. Fulmer pitched to a 2.97 ERA during the 2021 season with 73 strikeouts in 69.2 innings pitched. While Fulmer did make four starts in 52 appearances, he also saved a career-high 14 games. He became an invaluable member of Detroit’s bullpen and positioned himself to be one of the AL Central’s better relievers.

This past season, spending time between the Tigers and the Minnesota Twins, Fulmer turned in a 3.39 ERA and 61 strikeouts over 63.2 innings pitched. Fulmer had a barrel rate (4.4%) that ranked in the 91st percentile among qualified pitchers, while he also had a whiff rate that ranked in the 71st percentile, per Baseball Savant.

Fulmer was traded for the second time in his career; this time around for minor leaguer RHP Sawyer Gipson-Long. While he overall had good numbers, that was more of a reflection of the success he had in Detroit, rather than in Minnesota, as opposing hitters slashed .203/.308/.273 against him prior to when he was traded on Aug. 2, good for an OPS of .590. Following the trade, opposing hitters slashed .313/.374/.500 in 24.1 innings pitched in a Twins uniform, good for an OPS of .874.

Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

Contract 

Fulmer’s market has yet to take off, but after signing a one-year, $4.95 million deal with Detroit last offseason, it’s reasonable to assume that he could be looking for a multi-year deal that would pay him upwards of $5 million.

Of course, money hasn’t seemed to stop Mets owner Steve Cohen before this offseason. So, if the front office decide to target another free agent reliever, Fulmer could come as a cost-effective option that could help New York in 2023 and beyond.

Recommendation 

Despite signing star closer Edwin Díaz to a five-year, $102 million contract, veteran reliever David Robertson to a one-year, $10 million deal and re-signing Adam Ottavino to a two-year, $14.5 million deal, the Mets could still use another relief pitcher.

Whether the Mets want to continue to pour more money into the bullpen and whether that hinges on the Carlos Correa saga, remains to be seen. In any event, adding an arm like Fulmer would not only further bolster the Mets bullpen, but it would give manager Buck Showalter several dynamic late-innings options. A bullpen that includes Diaz, Robertson, Ottavino, Drew Smith and Brooks Raley, is almost certainly an upgrade over what New York trotted out in 2022. Bullpens can be tricky, though, and throwing money to strengthen a unit that took a lot of hits this offseason isn’t always the right solution.

In any event, Fulmer is more than a suitable option for a Mets team that continues to examine its roster flexibility.

The post MMO Free Agent Profile: Michael Fulmer, RP appeared first on Metsmerized.

Credit: Wendell Cruz-USA TODAY Sports

It’s been a historic 2022-2023 Mets and we still haven’t reached the New Year. They have re-signed and added numerous MLB stars and could potentially add Carlos Correa as their third baseman.

With all of these signings, including Correa, the Mets are estimated to have a $384 million payroll, and close to $500 million after competitive balance taxes are included.  While a normal owner wouldn’t spend another dime, Steve Cohen is a different animal, and will most likely spend more.

Down below, wee highlighted the top remaining free agents available ahead of the 2023 season and how they fit on the current Mets roster.

AJ Pollock

AJ Pollock had a down year for the Chicago White Sox in 2022. He recorded a 91 OPS+ and .389 slugging percentage in 138 games. However, Pollock slashed .286/.316/.619/.935 against lefties in 2022 and clubbed 11 home runs in 126 at-bats against south-paws.

Adam Duvall

Adam Duvall had a forgettable 2022 season after only playing in 86 games due to injury. He is a perfect bounce-back candidate for the Mets, due to his home run prowess and ability to play all three outfield positions. Duvall was also fantastic in the 2021 season, where he clubbed 38 home runs and led the NL with 113 RBI.

Andrew McCutchen

Andrew McCutchen had an average season with the Brewers in 2022. He recorded a 99 OPS+ and hit 17 home runs. However, McCutchen recorded a respectable .316 OBP and 4 DRS in left field last season. He could provide the Mets with veteran leadership in the clubhouse and would be the cheapest option out of the remaining outfielders.

Michael Fulmer

Michael Fulmer has come a long way since winning the rookie of the year in 2016. He made the switch to the bullpen in 2020 and put up respectable numbers between the Tigers and Twins in 2022. Fulmer recorded a 3.39 ERA and 113 ERA+ in 63 2/3 innings in 2022 and would be a solid add for the Mets, who originally drafted him in 2011.

Zack Britton

Zack Britton has missed significant time the past two seasons due to a bone chip in his elbow and Tommy John surgery. According to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, Britton is looking for a one-year deal before the 2023 season. Britton could reunite with his old manager Buck Showalter in Queens and rebuild his numbers in low-leverage situations.

Trey Mancini

Trey Mancini had an eventful season in 2022. He was traded mid-season by a Baltimore team in the playoff race and then won a World Series with the Astros after slashing a miserable .176/.258/.364/.622 in Houston. While he is projected to make the most money out of the noted free agents, Mancini fits the profile that the Mets have been looking for out of the DH position. He clubbed 114 home runs during his tenure in Baltimore and has played for Buck Showalter in the past.

The post Top Free Agents Left for the Mets appeared first on Metsmerized.

Credit: Andy Marlin-USA TODAY Sports

With the Mets having 11 free agents, there are going to be a host of new faces heading to the Big Apple and donning the blue and orange next season. However, there are some intriguing names on the market that have done so already, and we’re going to take a look at them and determine whether or not the Mets should bring them back.

Noah Syndergaard, SP, Phillies

After appearing like a lock to return to the Mets after missing all of 2020 and most of 2021 due to Tommy John surgery, Syndergaard declined the Mets’ qualifying offer and bolted to Los Angeles to join the Angels on a 1-year, $21-million deal. He made 15 starts for the team and recorded a 3.85 ERA over that stretch before being traded to the Phillies, where he appeared in 10 games and put up a 4.12 ERA.

One of the best Mets’ starters of the past decade, Syndergaard just simply isn’t the pitcher he once was. His velocity has dipped significantly, and his strikeout numbers have dropped all the way down to 6.35 per nine. He was still effective in 2022 and put up a 2.2 fWAR on the year, but it wouldn’t make much sense for the Mets to pursue a reunion when they have more of a need for front-end starters, which Syndergaard isn’t anymore.

Justin Turner, 3B, Dodgers 

For the better part of the last decade, Turner was a case of “what could have been” for the Mets. After spending parts of four seasons with the franchise and slashing .267/.327/.371 from 2011 to 2013, he was non-tendered and subsequently signed by the Los Angeles Dodgers before the 2014 season. The rest was history, as he went on to spend nine seasons in L.A that earned him two All-Star appearances, a World Series ring, and 34 fWAR while slashing .296/.375/.490.

Turner had a solid 2022 campaign, slashing .278/.350/.438 to go with 2.4 fWAR and 123 wRC+. However, he will be 38 at the start of next season and his defense has declined immensely, putting up -2 Outs Above Average last season.

His power has also dipped as he recorded his lowest slugging percentage as a Dodger in 2022 and his home run total was down to 13 from 27 just a season ago. He profiles as more of a designated hitter this day in age, and with both Brett Baty and Eduardo Escobar in tow as capable options at the hot corner, it’s tough to see how Turner would fit on the roster.

Michael Conforto, OF, FA

The last two years or so have been a roller coaster for Conforto. After a stellar 2020 campaign that earned him MVP votes, he declined a $100-million offer from the Mets in his contract year and decided to bet on himself. That proved to be a mistake as he had a down 2021 season in which he slashed .232/.344/.384 to go with 1.4 fWAR. He then declined the Mets qualifying offer in the off-season and proceeded to go unsigned for the rest of 2022 after injuring his right shoulder.

It feels as though Conforto’s legacy has been tarnished due to recent events, but there are still reasons for the Mets to be interested in potentially bringing him back if Brandon Nimmo signs elsewhere. Over the course of his Mets’ career, he was one of the premier corner outfielders in the league and slashed .255/.356/.468 while recording 19.3 fWAR and 132 home runs. He would be a low-risk, high-reward signing if it were to happen and could bring power to a lineup that desperately needs it as well.

Brad Hand, RP, Phillies

Hand’s 2021 was a bit of a whirlwind, as he spent time with three different teams and was claimed off waivers by the Mets in September after being released by the Toronto Blue Jays. He finished that year with a 3.90 ERA and -0.1 fWAR, making it his first season with under 1.0 fWAR since 2015. However, his tenure in New York was largely successful as he recorded a 2.70 ERA in 16 games.

He was able to bounce back a bit in 2022 with the Phillies to the tune of a 2.80 ERA over 55 games, but it appears as though he overperformed as evidenced by his 4.40 xERA, 3.94 FIP and 4.90 xFIP. His strikeout and walk per nine numbers dropped to 7.60 and 4.60 respectively, and overall it appears as if his best days are behind him.

Despite their pressing need for bullpen arms and lefties in particular, the Mets should be able to find better fits elsewhere on the free agent market or via trade.

Michael Wacha, SP, Red Sox

Wacha’s one-year stint with the Mets in 2020 was somewhat of a failed experiment. He made eight starts and seven appearances resulting in a 6.62 ERA, 5.15 FIP and 0.0 fWAR. He struggled with the Tampa Bay Rays in 2021 as well before having his best season in years with the Boston Red Sox in 2022. With Boston, he made 23 starts and amassed 1.5 fWAR to go with a 3.32 ERA while re-establishing himself as a capable and efficient starter.

He does profile as more of a back-end starter though, and there just isn’t an inherent need on New York’s roster for that kind of pitcher as is the case with Syndergaard. Both sides seem likely to find better options and opportunities elsewhere.

Michael Fulmer, RP, Twins

The main piece of the Yoenis Céspedes trade, Fulmer found early success with the Detroit Tigers as a starter and even earned both AL Rookie of the Year and All-Star honors in his first two seasons. After undergoing Tommy John surgery in 2019, he transitioned to the bullpen in 2021 and has since become a borderline elite weapon, recording a 3.17 ERA and 2.2 fWAR over 117 games since. His 2022 showing wasn’t quite as impressive as 2021, but he still proved to be a reliable middle reliever with a 3.35 ERA.

With the Mets being tasked with essentially rebuilding the entirety of their bullpen, bringing in Fulmer would make a lot of sense.

Brandon Drury, INF, Padres

Drury was one of the breakout stars of the first half with the Cincinnati Reds, slashing .278/336/.528 with a 133 wRC+ during that period. He was later flipped to the San Diego Padres at the trade deadline and took a step back after relocating to a more pitcher-friendly environment, but still held his own with a slash line of .238/.290/.435.

Drury played in a limited capacity with the Mets in 2021 and slashed .274/.307/.476. His main draw as it pertains to returning to New York is his ability to hit lefties, whom he slashed .299/.329/.626 against this year, as well as his power as he hit 28 homers this year. He also played five different positions in 2021, adding some coveted versatility into the mix.

There isn’t a clear path for him to earn consistent playing time in the field though, and he would likely settle in as a platoon designated hitter if he were to return. The Mets should have interest here, but the main question is whether or not Drury would accept a likely part-time role when he is going to receive starting opportunities on the open market.

The post Which Former Mets Should The Team Target In Free Agency? appeared first on Metsmerized.

Credit: Dale Zanine – USA TODAY

The Mets enter the 2022 off-season in dire need of bullpen help. Edwin Díaz, Adam Ottavino, Seth Lugo, Trevor May, Joely Rodríguez, Tommy Hunter, and Trevor Williams will all be free agents. In total, those seven pitchers recorded 379 1/3 innings for the Mets last season.

With the goal of competing in 2023, the Mets will have to build their pen from the plethora of options on the free-agent market. Below I have analyzed the most viable options for the Mets heading into the off-season.

Edwin Díaz

Díaz recorded one of the most dominant seasons as a closer in 2022. He struck out 50.2% of the batters he faced, pitched to a 1.31 ERA, and saved 32 out of 35 save opportunities. The Mets have stated their strong interest in re-signing Díaz and are not afraid to hand out the largest contract ever given to a closer.

Adam Ottavino

Ottavino looked vintage in 2022 and held down the eighth inning for the Mets. He cut down his walks per nine from 5.1 in 2021 to 2.2 in 2022 and recorded a WHIP under 1 for the first time since 2018.

Taylor Rogers

Taylor Rogers struggled after the all-star break once he was traded to the Brewers. He pitched to a 5.48 ERA in Milwaukee and walked 10 batters in 23 innings pitched. However, the left-hander struck out 14.1 batters per nine with the Brewers and was an all-star in 2021.

David Robertson

David Robertson continues to be a dominant reliever at 37 and was an instrumental piece in the Phillies play-off run. He pitched to a 2.40 ERA in 63 2/3 innings in the regular season and struck out 11.5 batters per nine.

Rafael Montero

Add old friend Rafael Montero to the list of pitchers that the Houston Astros have fixed over the last five years. In 2022, he pitched to a 2.37 ERA in 68 1/3 innings and held batters to a slash line of .193/.268/.267/.535.

Michael Fulmer

Michael Fulmer was relegated to the bullpen in 2021 after he struggled with injury and poor performance as a starter. Although he has been better as a reliever, Fulmer’s numbers are not eye popping. In 133 1/3 innings as a reliever, Fulmer has a 1.320 WHIP and 3.17 ERA.

Corey Knebel

Corey Knebel signed a one-year deal with the Phillies in 2022 after reviving his career with the Dodgers the year prior. He struggled in the earlier portion of the season and lost his closers role after blowing four saves in 16 opportunities. Overall, Knebel took a step back in 2022, finishing with a 8.3 SO/9, 1.366 WHIP, and 4.46 FIP.

Kenley Jansen

Kenley Jansen stepped into the Braves closer role last season and proved to be reliable. While he gave up 1.1 home runs per nine innings, he led the National League with 41 saves and 51 games finished. Jansen also finished with a respectable 3.38 ERA.

Seth Lugo

Lugo was a bulldog for the Mets in 2022 and pitched 65 innings last season. While Lugo finished with an average 3.50 ERA in 2022, his SO/9 have gone down every year since 2019.

Robert Suarez

Robert Suarez made his MLB debut in 2022 after spending seven years between the Mexican League and NPB in Japan. He pitched to a 2.27 ERA and struck out 11.5 batters per nine over 44 2/3 innings. While he is 31, Suarez will be a hot commodity in the off season.

Brad Hand

Brad Hand proved last season that his short stint with the Mets in 2021 was not a fluke. He pitched to a 2.80 ERA and allowed only two home runs in 45 innings pitched. Hand will be targeted by many clubs this off-season due to the limited amount of left handers available.

Chris Martin

Chris Martin flourished after being traded to the Dodgers before the deadline in 2022. In LA, he pitched to a 1.46 ERA and walked one batter in 24 2/3 innings pitched. While Martin is 36, he has been one of the most reliable relievers in baseball. Since 2019, he has pitched in 173 innings and recorded a 144 ERA+.

Trevor May

May’s 2022 season was forgettable as the reliever dealt with injuries and only pitched 25 innings. While May pitched to a 5.04 ERA, his FIP finished at 3.87. Expect a bounce back season from May in 2023.

Matt Strahm

Matt Strahm bounced back with the Red Sox in 2022 after his season was cut short by injury last year. He pitched to a 3.83 ERA in 44 2/3 innings pitched. While Strahm struck out 10.5 batters per nine, he struggled with base runners and recorded a 1.231 WHIP in 2022.

Trevor Williams

Williams was the equivalent of a utility infielder out of the Mets bullpen in 2022. He logged 89 2/3 innings pitched, started nine games, and recorded one save last season. Meanwhile, Williams finished with a 3.21 ERA and 120 OPS+.

Brad Boxberger

Brad Boxberger finished another great year with the Brewers and recorded consecutive seasons of 64 innings pitched. While his 2.95 ERA was better in 2022, his 9.6 SO/9 and 1.234 WHIP were worse.

Will Smith

Will Smith revitalized his 2022 season after being traded to the Astros. After allowing seven home runs in 37 innings with the Braves, Smith pitched to a 3.27 ERA in Houston and allowed two home runs in 22 innings. Smith has been one of the most consistent left handed relievers since 2018 and has pitched to a 3.27 ERA over 261 1/3 innings.

The post Analyzing the 2023 Relief Pitching Free Agent Market appeared first on Metsmerized.

Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

The Mets needed more hitting and less drama. In late July 2015, they got both. 

The week leading up to the trade deadline, the Mets began seeking a bat that would jump-start a lifeless offense. This as New York teetered at the .500 mark yet had first place in its sights. It ended with the Mets landing that key bat and beginning their surge to the National League East title and, ultimately, the NL pennant. 

In between was a roller coaster of emotions: from hope to sadness to anger to euphoria. Those emotions weren’t limited to the fans. 

On July 27th, New York fortified its relief pitching by getting Tyler Clippard from Oakland, Anoher less-than-flashy but substantive move on top of recent utility player pick-ups Juan Uribe and Kelly Johnson.

It appeared the need for a major piece to the batting order was filled on July 29th. This, when in the middle of a home game against San Diego, a deal had reportedly been made to acquire Carlos Gomez from the Brewers with Wilmer Flores among those being shipped to Milwaukee. The deal fell through over concerns about Gomez’s hip, but not before Flores had been notified by fans of his seemingly impending departure. 

Leaving the only organization he’d known since age 16 brought him to tears on the field at his shortstop position. Postgame press conferences over why the trade was nixed were justly perceived as an embarrassment for a franchise accustomed to public relations blunders. More heartbreak came the next afternoon. A 7-1 lead against the Padres washed away with a ninth-inning meltdown. This including two excruciating rain delays in between. 

Then came July 31st, and the looming 4:00 P.M. EST trade deadline. The Mets snatched Yoenis Céspedes from Detroit at the wire. In 102 games, the 29-year-old had a batting average of .293 with 18 homers and 61 RBI. In other words, it was just what the lineup needed. Hours after the Mets made one of their most impactful trades in years, the player they didn’t relinquish provided one of the biggest hits in recent memory.

The Mets were hosting the Nationals in a crucial three-game series. The team the Mets were behind by three games in the NL East standings. Energized by their newest addition, but without him until the next day, the spotlight shifted to Flores. He began with a diving defensive play that elicited a standing ovation from the Citi Field crowd. They were standing with each at bat, too. And in the fourth inning, he drove in the first run on a single. 

That would be the Mets’ lone run for a while, as Washington tied the game in the eighth. The deadlock lasted into the bottom of the 12th with Flores leading off. He had already earned the empathy of fans, and then he added to the storyline further with a walk-off home run to give New York a 2-1 victory. This moved New York a game closer to first place, and cemented Flores as a Mets’ cult hero. On the same field where he shed tears two nights earlier, Wilmer had a far different emotion rounding the bases. As he neared the swarm of teammates at home plate, he tugged on the front of his jersey. He was definitely a Met. 

While Céspedes ultimately was the spark this team needed, with 17 homers, 44 RBI, and a 155 OPS+ in 57 games, helping to carry New York over the final two months of the regular season, it was Flores’ storybook homer that kick-started his team on their road to the pennant.

The post OTD 2015: Céspedes Trade Followed by Flores Walk-Off appeared first on Metsmerized.

Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

Position: Right-handed Reliever
Age: 29 (3/15/1993)
Stats: 2.16 ERA, 3.01 FIP, 0.7 fWAR, 25 IP, 9.36 K/9

With the Mets’ pitching staff continuing to battle injuries, it’s become clear that the team needs some arms. The bullpen currently sits 12th in MLB with a 3.68 ERA, but with Chasen Shreve and Seth Lugo having disappointing years and Trevor May and Colin Holderman still sidelined, expect the team to target relievers as the trade deadline approaches.

One arm that could help serve as a bridge to Edwin Díaz is former Met prospect Michael Fulmer. The Mets traded Fulmer as the centerpiece of the deal that brought Yoenis Céspedes to Flushing back in 2015, and the righty has rebounded well after battling some injuries. While he was an All-Star and Rookie of the Year as a starter, Fulmer has worked primarily as a reliever in the past two seasons and spent some time as Detroit’s closer a year ago. In 2021, Fulmer made 52 appearances and pitched to a 2.97 ERA/3.46 FIP with a 1.278 WHIP and 73 strikeouts in 69.2 innings (9.4 K/9) to go along with 14 saves. Fulmer’s 6.7-percent walk rate was his lowest since 2017 and his 3.65 K/BB ratio was the best of his career.

Fulmer has backed up last year’s resurgence by putting up a 2.16 ERA/3.01 FIP and a 0.920 WHIP with 26 strikeouts through 25 innings this season. Fulmer’s 26.3-percent strikeout rate is the best of his career. The 29-year-old has some strong peripherals too –– his xERA of 2.02 is among the top three percent in MLB, and his opponents have a just a .171 xBA, a .265 xSLG, a .205 wOBA, a .237 xWOBA, and .263 xWOBACON against him.

Much like Edwin Díaz, Fulmer has relied heavily on his slider this season, throwing it 59.1-percent of the time and yielding a 36.7-percent whiff rate with just a .082 batting average and .122 xSLG against the pitch. Of the 61 batted balls Fulmer has allowed this year, only one has been classified as a barrel.

However, some red flags come with Fulmer. His walk rate has spiked to 11.1 percent (4.0 BB/9), which is by far the worst mark of his career. Perhaps a little more concerning is Fulmer’s velocity, which has fallen on all of his pitches. Most significantly, the velocity on his sinker (which is his primary fastball) is down from 95.7 MPH last year to 93.8 MPH this season. While the whiff rate on almost all of his pitches has gone up, it’s hard to look past the decrease in velocity, especially given his injury history.

Contract Status

Given that Fulmer is making $4.9 million this year and is set to hit the free-agent market this off-season, he seems destined to get traded this summer, and he probably won’t command a big return. With the bullpen being one of the few weaknesses on this year’s team, the Mets should strongly consider reuniting with Fulmer.

The post Possible Trade Target: Michael Fulmer, RHP appeared first on Metsmerized.