New York Mets Are Favorites To Sign Framber Valdez To $200 Million Deal
The New York Mets’ biggest need this offseason is adding proven arms to their starting rotation. David Stearns tried to piece together a bunch of veteran players and not pay a starting pitcher much money, which came back to haunt the team in a huge way. With a lot of starters available on the market, the Mets will be aggressive to shore up their pitching staff.
Mets Seen As Favorites For Valdez
Hector Gomez reported late last night that the New York Mets are the favorites to sign Framber Valdez to a six-year deal worth $200 million. Valdez would immediately slot in at the top of the Mets’ rotation. The one thing that the Mets don’t have is a reliable left-handed starter, with Sean Manaea struggling all of last season. Manaea got a late start after suffering an injury in spring training and was ineffective when he returned, as we later found out that he was pitching with a loose body in his left elbow all season.
If they were to sign Valdez, their rotation would most likely look like this: Nolan McLean, David Peterson, Clay Holmes, and Valdez, listed in no particular order. Manaea would have a chance to compete for a starting role in Spring Training, going up against a lot of their young pitching prospects if they aren’t moved in a blockbuster trade this offseason.
Valdez is coming off a down season with the Houston Astros, but has been one of the most reliable pitchers in baseball. In 31 starts, he had a 3.66 ERA, 1.24 WHIP, and 187 strikeouts. In the last five seasons, Valdez is first in wins (48), fifth in innings pitched (902.1), and fourth in ERA (3.02). He is exactly what the Mets are looking for, and would fit in perfectly in Queens atop their rotation.
What Is Next For the Mets?
After acquiring Marcus Semien from the Texas Rangers, David Stearns still has work to do. Addressing the rotation is a top priority, along with adding to the lineup. With the outfield as their weakest spot, they could pursue former Yankees outfielder Cody Bellinger.
The biggest question is what they’ll do with current free agents Pete Alonso and Edwin Diaz. Both will command huge deals, possibly deterring the Mets from acquiring other talent to create a more balanced team. With the Winter Meetings a week away, the market will move fast, and the Mets are expected to be among the most aggressive teams as they try to move past their nightmare season.
