All-Star Pitcher Reportedly Looking For Deal In Range That Mets Could Afford
The New York Mets could use a little more depth in the starting rotation.
New York will be without the services of Kodai Senga for the foreseeable future. It's unclear how long he will be out for, but the Mets' depth certainly will be tested.
The Mets improved their starting rotation this offseason, but losing Senga could be devastating. There still are some options out there in free agency who could help the club, though.
One player who could make a lot of sense is one-time All-Star Michael Lorenzen. The veteran hurler earned his first All-Star nod last season and reportedly is looking for a two-year deal worth around $20 million, according to The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal.
"Free-agent right-handed Michael Lorenzen continues to see a two-year deal, according to sources briefed on his intentions," Rosenthal said. "Lorenzen, 32, earned $9.25 million last season, including $750,000 in incentives. An increase in his average annual value on a two-year deal would put him in the range of a $20 million guarantee."
According to Will Sammon and Tim Britton of The Athletic, the Mets have been in touch with Lorenzen. But as Sammon explained, it is more of a due diligence task for president of baseball operations David Stearns at this point.
Lorenzen began his big league career as a reliever but transitioned into the starting rotation in 2022. He began the 2023 season with the Detroit Tigers and had a 3.58 ERA in 18 starts before being traded to the Philadelphia Phillies.
He struggled after joining Philadelphia but still could make a lot of sense. He is just 32 years old and isn't looking for a massive contract.
New York has put a specific focus on adding players on cheap deals with upside and Lorenzen certainly fits that description.
