In order to complete their roster, the Mets still need to work on adding pitchers and catchers, who will arrive in a few weeks.
When Mets President of Baseball Operations David Stearns spoke with the media on Wednesday to introduce Harrison Bader and Luis Severino, he was asked about the team’s current roster and whether any holes needed to be filled.
After adding Severino, Sean Manaea, and Adrian Houser this offseason, Stearns stated that the team will look to add more arms going forward, but they will exercise caution in doing so.
Over Zoom, Stearns remarked, “You’re never finished [adding], especially when you’re talking about starting pitching. We’re going to be searching for methods to enhance, advance, and expand.
“We achieved some noteworthy advancements. We added three arms to our starting rotation, and I like that. We’ll keep searching. Before spring training begins, I’m not sure if another acquisition of note will be made for the rotation, but we need to remain vigilant and engaged.”
Although the starting rotation appears to be set, Stearns stated that the team is still active in several markets, but the first-year Mets general manager is hoping to strengthen the bullpen.
“Neither we nor any team are perfect,” he declared. “We will continue to be active in all areas. Not surprisingly, we’re focusing on the pen in particular. It makes sense to look for methods to strengthen our bullpen.”
Regarding the offense, though, what can be said? Stearns did not rule out the possibility that the Mets will sign a bat, given that Ronny Mauricio is expected to miss the entire 2024 season, leaving third base and the designated hitter position open.
He sees good internal options, so he doesn’t think adding an offensive bat is necessary, but he will keep an eye on the market.
“We’re still evaluating and we’ll see what becomes available.” Stearns clarified. “I don’t think it’s necessary, but I wouldn’t necessarily close the door on that. We do ensure that our younger players receive meaningful at-bats. On that one, we haven’t decided in stone yet. We’re still debating it and it’s not yet decided.”
Stearns persisted in praising the young players in the Mets system and hinted that a few could be able to help close gaps in the roster, either in the pitching or offensive departments.
“The quantity of elite pitching prospects we have, as well as the players who can make their major league debut this year or continue to gain experience in the majors, excites me.
“I always want more starting pitching…but I’m also excited over the course of the year to see some of our younger pitchers take that next step in their development and get to the major league level and give them an opportunity to have success here.”