Mets: We overrated the starting rotation heading into 2020

The New York Mets starting rotation has let them down in 2020 in part because we overrated what they could accomplish.

The New York Mets have had one of the best rotations in MLB in recent years. Baseball fans and MLB teams alike have been aware of this fact. The bullpen, on the other hand, had struggled and was widely recognized as being the team’s most significant hindrance, especially last season.

How many times have we heard fans speculate about what a pitching staff comprised of the Mets’ rotation and the New York Yankees’ bullpen would look like?

However, coming into the 2020 season, the Mets were projected to have not only one of the best rotations in the league but one of the best bullpens, as well. Some relievers made strong cases for themselves last year, some who struggled were expected to rebound, and some new faces made their way to Queens.

A top rotation headlined by the best pitcher in the world and finally a top bullpen coupled with an electric and dangerous lineup that emerged last season made the Mets a serious title contender in the eyes of many.

Approximately 25 games into this 60-game season, that appears to be far from the truth.

The bullpen struggled mightily to kick off the season and even though it’s looked better as of late, the rotation is woeful. Pitchers are either struggling, injured, or both.

The Mets have had other issues, as well. One of their more glaring weaknesses is the fact that their hitters strand men on base more so than the vast majority of teams. Even so, one thing is clear: most overrated the Mets pitching staff.

Let’s take a look at how the Mets got here and where the team stands now.