Mets could pursue reliable Royals starter to bolster rotation for 2025

The New York Mets decided to cut back on spending last offseason, but that hasn’t stopped them from contending in 2024. In fact, they own a record of 83-69 and sit tied with the Arizona Diamondbacks in the National League Wild Card race.

The Mets could potentially return to their spending ways this offseason and add a few key pieces. Their starting rotation could use a boost, especially if they end up losing Sean Manaea.

Perhaps they could target a reunion with right-hander Michael Wacha.

“Very quietly, Wacha has been outstanding for the upstart Royals,” Mike Axisa wrote. “He has a $16 million player option for next season. Even at age 33, it seems very likely that Wacha will decline the option and go back to free agency, where a 2–3-year contract could be waiting.”

Wacha spent the COVID-shortened 2020 season with the Mets and struggled, going 1-4 with a 6.62 ERA in eight appearances, seven on which were starts.

However, Wacha has certainly found his rhythm again in recent years. He’s 13-7 with a 3.29 this year with the Kansas City Royals and is one of the key reasons why they are a clear contender in the American League.

He isn’t an ace by any means, but he is a reliable middle-of-the-rotation arm that could certainly help the Mets as they try to remain competitive in 2025.

Wacha’s market will be competitive, but the Mets should be able to afford him if they decide to target him in free agency.

He could be a strong veteran presence in a young Mets clubhouse and could also give them quality innings as a starter.

We’ll see if New York is in the mix.

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