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Yamamoto Sweepstakes: Do the Mets Have What It Takes?

Yoshinobu Yamamoto is being courted by multiple MLB teams and everyone is waiting to see where he will sign for next year.

On a recent Bleav in Mets podcast episode, MLB broadcaster Casey Stern talked about the Met's chances of winning the Yoshinobu Yamamoto sweepstakes. He acknowledges that the Mets have a fighting chance but thinks a more historic franchise like the Yankees will ultimately sign the Japanese superstar.

"It comes down to common sense. You have to put yourself in the player's position. As much as a Met fan wants Yamamoto to come to the Mets, I am not saying it is not possible. Primarily because of Steve Cohen, they will be in the mix… I think the Yankees have a better chance than the Mets do. I think clearly if the Dodgers are in it to win it with the money they have to spend. They are in a better spot than the Mets," said Cohen. "I probably put the Mets in the third spot ahead of the Red Sox, who seem to be maybe the top four competitors."

The Mets went all in last year by acquiring Justin Verlander and Max Scherzer to lead their pitching staff. Both former Cy Young Award winners were shipped off to new homes before the trade deadline, significantly hurting New York's chances of contending this upcoming season.

The league is waiting on Yamamoto's decision as he will be the next domino to fall now that Shohei Ohtani has opted to sign with the Dodgers. The Mets are +2800 to win the World Series in 2024 according to BetOnline.