The New York Mets will be without the services of its top starting pitcher when Opening Day rolls around.
Mets ace Kodai Senga currently is dealing with an injury and will miss the beginning of the 2024 campaign. Hopefully, he isn't out long-term, but the Mets' starting rotation will be thin at least to begin the campaign.
New York made a specific effort to improve the rotation this offseason and did so by investing in pitchers on smaller deals with bounce-back potential. The Mets seem to be in a better place but could use one more starter, especially with Senga out right now.
One player who is available and could be an interesting option for New York is veteran starter Mike Clevinger. He has a career 3.45 ERA in seven seasons and seems to fit the Mets' price range. Clevinger reportedly is looking for a two-year deal worth around $20 million, according to USA Today Sports' Bob Nightengale.
"Veteran free-agent starter Mike Clevinger has informed teams that he is seeking a two-year deal in excess of $20 million," Nightengale said.
Clevinger spent the 2023 campaign with the Chicago White Sox and had a 3.77 ERA in 24 starts. He still is available in free agency and certainly wouldn't cost as much as someone like Blake Snell or Jordan Montgomery.
New York seems to be in a better place than it was at the end of the 2023 campaign. The Mets should be able to compete for a playoff spot if Senga doesn't miss much time. Adding someone like Clevinger would only help.
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