What Now?

Posted by: Patrick Gorman 1/15/2024

With The Mets solidifying their Outfield depth and what it seems like the starting rotation as well they still have to add some key pieces to make them competitive for 2024.

Bullpen Arms

It is no secret that The Mets need some big league bullpen to help Edwin Diaz, Drew Smith, and Brooks Raley. SNY's Andy Martino reported that they do have interest in bringing in Wandy Peralta. Peralta has been known as a high leverage reliever for The Yankees posting a 2.83 ERA in 54 innings this past year. Peralta would make this bullpen deeper and better, especially having another lefty to complement Raley. I do think The Mets should add another reliever as well on top of a lefty and there are many options to go from.

For starters, bringing back old friend David Robertson wouldn't be a bad idea at all. Robertson was one of the few bright spots in the 2023 season posting elite numbers in the closer role filling in for an injured Diaz posting a 2.03 ERA in 44 innings with 14 saves. I know that his numbers weren't good when he got traded to Miami, but I think it was more of a mental issue of him not wanting to leave New York. Robertson can also provide veteran leadership to a young core of arms that will eventually contribute this year.

Another option that they can pivot to is Hector Neris. Neris is a fiery competitor on the mound showing a lot of energy and passion that can rub opposing teams the wrong way. He backs up his antics on the mound by posting up solid numbers. Neris's past two seasons in Houston were really good, posting a 2.69 ERA, 0.67 HR/9, and a 1.03 WHIP. Not only would he provide the team a reliable high leverage arm, but he can also help give this team an identity for being fierce competitors.

A Real DH

Ever since the DH was installed into the National League The Mets have ranked in the lower part of the league when it comes to production from that position. From the platoon of JD Davis/ Dom Smith to Daniel Vogelbach/ Darin Ruf it is time for them to find a legit MLB DH that doesn't involve a platoon. The only real match made in heaven to me is 2021 World Series MVP Jorge Soler. It is no secret that I think Soler is the best and only option for them at DH via free agency. Soler put up a big year for Miami posting a .853 OPS in 137 games while hitting 36 Home Runs. Soler will demand a multi-year deal which I think is worth it because he is only in his early 30s unlike Justin Turner and JD Martinez so he fits the mold of 2025 and beyond. Soler also lengthens out this lineup in a big way by plugging him behind Alonso it will give Pete more pitches to hit. Soler does make this lineup a WC lineup, but if we do not land him then the reins should go to Mark Vientos and see what he can do everyday in this lineup.