The New York Mets’ offseason has been one for the ages.
They snagged the top free agent in Juan Soto, and have hammered away at their rotation with the signings of Frankie Montas and Clay Holmes, while re-signing of Sean Manaea amongst other depth moves.
Still, with less than one month before pitchers and catchers report to spring training, the Mets could stand to make more moves to the bullpen. Specifically, re-signing another former pitcher from their magical 2024 run.
Ryne Stanek was a pleasant surprise in the Mets’ postseason run. The flamethrowing finished three wins against the Milwaukee Brewers and Philadelphia Phillies combined, plus pitched 2 1/3 crucial innings against the Los Angeles Dodgers in the Game 5 win to send the Mets back to Los Angeles for their eventual defeat.
It was a different form of Stanek seen by all. He had been a dull spot in the bullpen after arriving from Seattle midway through the season, pitching to a 6.06 ERA in 16 1/3 innings. But the run in October gave a glimpse of what Stanek could provide. And what he could provide to the Mets if brought back.
The first regular season stint shouldn’t be held against him. Stanek was a mainstay in the Astros’ bullpen from 2021 through 2023. He racked up 196 strikeouts in 173 2/3 innings, while putting up a strong 2.90 ERA.
Stanek’s a strikeout machine. One the Mets could certainly use. The bullpen was decimated by injury and poor performance last season, and doesn’t look any stronger heading into 2025.
Outside of the recent A.J. Minter signing, the Mets haven’t added help to the backend of their bullpen. They’re heading into the seasons relying on right-handed relievers Reed Garrett and José Buttó to setup Díaz, who both showed positive strides last season but had their fare share of troubles.
Dedniel Núñez is another option in 2025, but he’s returning from a strained right flexor strain and his role and work load for the upcoming season is still a question mark.
Stanek plugs a massive hole for the upcoming season.
