From New York Mets On SI · · 1m 40s
Mets Prioritize Rotation and First Base
Mets need ace pitcher and first baseman after 74-win season.
In brief
Mets need ace pitcher and first baseman after 74-win season. Mets must sign Tarik Skubal for ace role and find first baseman after 74-win 2026 season. Originally reported by New York Mets On SI.
Mets' 2026 season
The New York Mets turned one of the largest payrolls in baseball into just a 74-win team in 2026.
David Stearns' plan
President of Baseball Operations David Stearns has a lot of work to do in the offseason.
Key needs
Clear needs in the rotation and first base, with Bo Bichette's opt-out decision altering 2027 roster.
Roster redundancies
Clear out roster redundancies, especially in infield where skill sets overlap.
Move from Vientos and Mauricio
Move on from Mark Vientos and Ronny Mauricio, both out of minor league options.
Bullpen help needed
Add bullpen help after gutting the group at trade deadline.
Bullpen cast
Kodai Senga, Dedniel Nunez, Nate Lavender, and Daniel Duarte showed bullpen potential.
Bullpen vulnerability
Bullpen vulnerable to regression from Senga and Duarte without added veterans.
Add middle rotation starter
Add veteran starter for middle of rotation to stabilize 2027 rotation.
Robbie Ray or Kevin Gausman
Robbie Ray or Kevin Gausman could be veteran free agents to add to rotation.
Add first baseman
Need to find first baseman after botching Pete Alonso replacement plan.
Jared Young potential
Jared Young showed potential but doesn't fit as everyday first baseman.
Sign Tarik Skubal
Mets need ace pitcher, Tarik Skubal is two-time Cy Young winner available for signing.
Skubal's risks
Skubal had elbow scope this year but is safest bet for top rotation.
Here's the gist
Mets must sign Tarik Skubal for ace role and find first baseman after 74-win 2026 season.
