The New York Mets made a big push in MLB free agency this year, particularly targeting Yoshinobu Yamamoto, engaging in a bidding war to secure him as one of the highest-paid players in the league. Despite their efforts, they ended up losing him to the Los Angeles Dodgers. The reason for the Mets coming in second place has become apparent months later.
After failing to sign Yamamoto, who was one of the most sought-after starting pitchers in the offseason, the Mets front office took a cautious approach to free agency, making only minor additions to the roster. This was disappointing for fans who were hoping for a new, young ace to lead the pitching rotation in the 2024 season.
However, losing Yamamoto to the Dodgers might not have been within the Mets’ control. Even if the Mets were willing to match any offer from Los Angeles, it seems the Dodgers had a significant advantage that heavily influenced Yamamoto’s decision.
According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, Yamamoto would have signed with the Mets if the Dodgers hadn’t signed Ohtani. Sources close to the negotiations suggest that Ohtani’s contract with the Dodgers and his efforts to recruit Yamamoto played a crucial role in his decision.
The combination of Ohtani’s recruitment and a massive 12-year, $325 million contract ultimately swayed Yamamoto away from New York. Although the 25-year-old pitcher struggled in his MLB debut, allowing 5 runs and 5 base runners in just one inning, he has since been outstanding on the mound with a 1.64 ERA over his last 6 starts.
Yamamoto would have been a great addition to the Mets’ starting rotation, which currently ranks 22nd in quality starts recorded. Fortunately for New York baseball fans, the Mets are expected to use the money they saved this offseason to pursue Juan Soto in free agency next year.
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