Mets listed as potential free agent fit for veteran Reds swingman

The New York Mets are expected to spend some money this offseason.

After losing the NLCS to the eventual World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers, they’ll have some holes to fill, particularly with their pitching staff. Sean Manaea and Luis Severino are now free agents.

They could potentially make a bargain move to bolster the staff, and right-hander Nick Martinez could be somebody they take a chance on. R.J. Anderson of CBS Sports linked Martinez to the Mets.

“Martinez declined his $12 million player option with the Reds to re-enter the free agent market. It’ll be interesting to see if he’s in pursuit of more money, or perhaps more of a guarantee that he’ll be used in a starting role,” Anderson wrote. “Martinez has been highly effective the last three seasons since returning from Japan, compiling a 126 ERA+ and a 3.20 strikeout-to-walk ratio.”

The 34-year-old has primarily been used as a reliever, but he is more than capable of starting and can eat innings. The Mets could use both of those functions for their pitching staff next season.

The veteran right-hander went 10-7 with a 3.10 ERA in 42 appearances with the Cincinnati Reds, 16 of which were starts. He also posted a 4.0 WAR.

He shouldn’t be too expensive for the Mets. Having somebody that can fill multiple roles and serve as a starter and reliever would be most beneficial for New York in 2025. 

We’ll see if he ends up on their radar.

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