The New York Mets appear to be torn between their desire to bolster their immediate competitive prospects and their caution regarding costly acquisitions until their financial situation improves. Despite already committing over $45 million for this season to Justin Verlander and Max Scherzer, who are not currently on their roster, the Mets might hesitate to pursue another high-priced free-agent pitcher before the season begins. However, Joel Sherman of the New York Post holds a differing view, advocating for the Mets to aggressively pursue Jordan Montgomery, the reigning World Series champion.
Sherman argues that signing Montgomery could align with the Mets’ strategy, suggesting a contract offer of five years at $115 million with an opt-out clause after three years, and challenging other teams to surpass it. He emphasizes that the Mets aim to win presently without jeopardizing future financial flexibility, and they are closely monitoring Montgomery’s contract demands.
How Would Jordan Montgomery Fit into New York Mets’ Plans?
Following a lavish spending spree that elevated the team’s payroll to one of baseball’s highest, the New York Mets faced disappointment in 2023 with a lackluster 75-87 record. Several setbacks contributed to this underwhelming performance: star reliever Edwin Díaz was sidelined for the season due to an injury sustained during celebrations at the World Baseball Classic, Scherzer and Verlander struggled before being traded midseason, and the team’s veteran hitters experienced declines at the plate.
In response to this disappointing season, the Mets appointed a new president of baseball operations, David Stearns, aiming to steer the team back on course. Presently, the Mets are navigating their financial constraints while maintaining their commitment to contending for a World Series in the near future.
Jordan Montgomery, a durable 31-year-old starter, emerges as a potential asset in this endeavor. Coming off a season where he posted a 2.90 ERA and recorded 17 strikeouts in 31 postseason innings with the Texas Rangers, Montgomery aligns with the Mets’ vision for competitiveness. If signed to a multi-year contract, he could partner with Kodai Senga as a formidable duo atop the rotation for the foreseeable future, bolstering the team’s playoff aspirations.
Joel Sherman highlights the significance of a healthy Senga/Montgomery combination as a cornerstone for playoff contention and future building efforts. Additionally, Montgomery’s eligibility for the qualifying offer presents a favorable aspect, as his signing wouldn’t incur draft pick compensation, aligning seamlessly with the Mets’ broader strategic plans.
How Would Adding Jordan Montgomery Impact the New York Mets’ Plans for Pete Alonso?
More than any remaining free agent, including Jordan Montgomery, the New York Mets’ strategy concerning a player currently on their roster will significantly shape the team’s immediate trajectory.
Pete Alonso, a standout hitter developed within the Mets organization, is poised to become an unrestricted free agent after this season. Projections suggest he could command a salary in the ballpark of nine years and $300 million. The Mets’ decision regarding Alonso—whether to retain him or let him depart for a potentially more lucrative offer elsewhere—will serve as a pivotal indicator of David Stearns’ vision for the team’s near-term prospects.
Amidst speculation about Alonso’s future, Mets fans are understandably apprehensive, as highlighted by Jesse Yomtov’s report for USA Today. The uncertainty surrounding Alonso looms large over the Mets’ 2024 season, casting a shadow over their plans and aspirations.
Extending a long-term contract offer to Jordan Montgomery might signal the Mets’ willingness to invest in seasoned stars, notwithstanding recent financial constraints, with the aim of mounting a deep postseason campaign in the foreseeable future.
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