David Stearns Tackles the Mets’ Starting Pitching Challenge: What’s Next?

As the offseason approaches, David Stearns, the Mets’ president of baseball operations, faces crucial decisions regarding the team’s starting pitching depth. Following a tumultuous season marked by injuries and performance issues, it’s clear that changes are necessary if the Mets hope to elevate their competitive standing in the league.

Current State of the Mets’ Rotation

Short-Term Contracts

The longest deal Stearns has offered to a starting pitcher during his leadership is a three-year contract to Sean Manaea. This decision reflects his conservative strategy regarding pitching contracts, opting instead for shorter-term commitments. Recent signings included:

• Clay Holmes: A success in 2025
• Frankie Montas: An underwhelming performance
• Griffin Canning: Effective until injury curtailed his contributions

In the previous offseason, Stearns made one-year deals with Manaea and Luis Severino, further indicating his inclination toward low-risk contracts.

Lack of Ace Options

Stearns’ unwillingness to invest in high-profile starters has been apparent. This past trading season, he didn’t make notable moves for top-tier talent, finishing as a runner-up for Garrett Crochet and missing opportunities to strengthen the rotation. With this cautious approach, it’s essential to question whether his strategy will shift this offseason to include premium pitching prospects or free agents.

The Need for Change

Staff Performance Overview

As the 2025 season unfolded, the Mets faced multiple challenges, including:

• Injuries to several key pitchers
• Reliance on rookies as the only anchors of the staff
• Inconsistent performances across the rotation

Stearns admitted that the current approach was missing a critical component: "We need more innings out of our starting staff," he emphasized, reflecting on a need for stability moving forward.

Potential Free Agency Targets

With the upcoming offseason, the Mets could explore several free-agent options to enhance their rotation. Potential candidates include:

• Framber Valdez
• Michael King
• Ranger Suárez
• Dylan Cease
• Zac Gallen

Each of these pitchers brings a unique set of skills that could elevate the Mets’ starting lineup and address the glaring absence of a reliable ace.

Developing Homegrown Talent

While external acquisitions are critical, Stearns highlighted the importance of nurturing homegrown players. Under contract for next season are:

• Kodai Senga
• Sean Manaea
• Clay Holmes
• David Peterson
• Nolan McLean
• Brandon Sproat
• Jonah Tong
• Christian Scott (recovering from injury)

Stearns elaborated on Senga’s potential, stating, "We know there’s potential… but can we put him in ink as making 30 starts next year? I think that would be foolish." This statement underscores the uncertainty surrounding the health and performance of their current pitchers.

Looking Toward the Future

Young Pitching Prospects

Stearns expressed optimism for the youth within the system, mentioning that McLean, Sproat, and Tong could play roles in the majors next year. McLean showed promise earlier in the season, while Sproat and Tong are anticipated to refine their skills in Triple-A Syracuse before making their major league debuts.

Trade Deadline Reflection

Stearns acknowledged past mistakes, noting the regret over not acquiring additional pitching help before the trade deadline. He explained that the costs associated with potential trades were prohibitive, stating, “I think our fan base would actually be perhaps even more upset if we had made some of those moves.” This insight reveals his commitment to balancing short-term performance with long-term organizational health.

Conclusion

As David Stearns prepares for the offseason, the Mets stand at a crossroads regarding their pitching rotation. The combination of potential free-agent acquisitions, the development of young talent, and strategic decisions will be pivotal as they aim for improved results in the upcoming season. Addressing the need for a stronger, more consistent pitching staff is essential if the Mets aspire to contend in a highly competitive league. Keeping a keen eye on player development and market opportunities will be paramount in crafting a successful strategy moving forward.

For more detailed insights on players and strategies that could shape the future of the Mets, check out sources like ESPN, MLB.com, and Yahoo Sports.