David Stearns Explains the Mets’ Strategy in the Pitching Rotation
New York Mets’ President of Baseball Operations, David Stearns, addressed concerns about the team’s starting rotation. Following the trade deadline, Stearns discussed the current situation and potential solutions to strengthen the pitching staff. The inability of the Mets’ starters to pitch deep into games has been evident in recent months. David Peterson is the only one who has pitched at least six innings in a start in the last month. This has led fans to call for reinforcements for the rotation.Stearns explained that the decision to promote Brandon Sproat or Nolan McLean, prominent prospects in Triple-A, will depend on their development and the team’s needs. Although no definitive decisions have been made, the possibility of incorporating them into the main team is being considered. Before the trade deadline, the Mets’ management focused on strengthening the bullpen, acquiring high-level relievers such as Ryan Helsley, Tyler Rogers, and Gregory Soto, in addition to adding center fielder Cedric Mullins. Despite having “engaged in conversations” with other teams about potential starters, such as Washington Nationals’ left-hander MacKenzie Gore, Stearns considered the costs to be too high. Stearns’ strategy is based on careful resource management, prioritizing the untapped potential of pitchers. Although the Mets did not acquire a star starter in the trade market, the focus is now on internal development and the possibility of promoting young talents. The decision not to heavily invest in elite starting pitchers has been a constant in Stearns’ strategy. This contrasts with other contending teams, which did seek to reinforce their rotations through expensive signings. The Mets’ management has opted for a long-term strategy, seeking talent with development potential instead of big names with million-dollar contracts. The goal is to build a competitive team in a sustainable manner. The Mets pursued Yoshinobu Yamamoto before last season, but it ultimately didn’t materialize. Instead, they focused on Sean Manaea and Luis Severino, and continued with this approach last winter. The recent performances of the starting pitchers have been mixed. Injuries have impacted the team’s performance, with several key pitchers on the injured list. Kodai Senga, Clay Holmes, and Frankie Montas have struggled, while Griffin Canning ended his season due to injury. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza has emphasized the importance of consistency in starting pitching, noting that the team needs to improve in this area. Sproat and McLean could be the answer to strengthen the rotation. Both pitchers have shown good performance in Triple-A and could be called up to the main team. Stearns has indicated that they are close to making a decision on these prospects, which could give a significant boost to the Mets’ rotation in the final stretch of the season.I think it’s always a combination of when, in terms of development, those guys are ready. And also when the need exists and how to fit it into the roster.
David Stearns
