There hasn’t been much for the New York Mets this offseason. The squad didn’t intend to contend in 2024, as Steve Cohen stated before the 2023 deadline, and the offseason has shown that.

The Mets have been in positions to sign high-profile free agents despite the insignificant moves.

Despite inviting Yoshinobu Yamamoto to dinner at his Connecticut house, Cohen was unable to close the sale. Even though they won’t be competing in ’24, it’s encouraging that they’re looking to recruit a player to help them.

After being quiet throughout the first few weeks of the summer, MLB.com noted that New York is a team that is still capable of making a big splash.

Shota Imanaga free agency: Three things to know about NPB pitcher  overshadowed by Yoshinobu Yamamoto - CBSSports.com
Shota Imanaga free agency

Anthony Castrovince believes that the squad is better off with Shota Imanaga.

“Though not as young and high-upside as Yamamoto, Shota Imanaga profiles as a viable mid-rotation option who would pair nicely with the Mets’ previous (and quite successful) international investment in Kodai Senga.”

Imanaga could be useful in the rotation even though he doesn’t have Yamamoto’s level of skill. The Mets now have one of the weakest rotations in baseball, mostly because of their lack of depth. It’s imperative that they add an arm as Spring Training approaches.

The New York Yankees are among the teams that have been connected to the left-hand pitcher. But because he’s a fly-ball pitcher, the Yankees aren’t said to be very interested in him.

The 30-year-old pitched in Nippon Professional Baseball this past season, recording an ERA of 2.80 and a WHIP of 1.054. Over the course of 148 innings pitched, he struck out 174 batters and only walked 24. While it is alarming, teams are aware that he let up 24 home runs.

His addition improves an abysmal Mets rotation, which may be the tipping point in their decision.

 

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