Mets Offseason Needs: Three lesser-talked about upgrades for the Amazins

Mets Need Minor League Starting Pitching Depth

And you thought a .200 hitting outfielder with a glove made of gold was a boring topic? Let’s talk about the importance of minor league starting pitching depth, shall we?

The Mets didn’t have much of it all in 2020. Back in March, it looked like they could roll through the year with six starters on the major league roster (one in the bullpen ready to pounce) plus some Triple-A pitchers down in Syracuse.

Those plans went astray real fast.

We’re seeing first-hand how ill-prepared the Mets were with their minor league pitching depth. They dipped into their bullpen more with Lugo and Robert Gsellman getting their chances. This isn’t the worst thing in the world especially considering how well other relievers have done.

I don’t think this is something the team can get away with again. Lugo and/or Gsellman will probably be in the starting rotation next year. The real minor league starting pitching depth this club needs must be down in the minors; stretched out and ready to perform five innings or more.

The good news is there are always arms fitting this description on the free agent market. Fallen veterans hoping to recoup some value always get released at the end of every year. It’s just a matter of pride and hoping they will accept reality: the only way to play baseball is to do it in the minor leagues.

You don’t need to be flashy with your minor league starting pitching depth. All you really need is someone with experience and grit. It also helps if he doesn’t mind riding a bus from city to city.

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What other minor needs do you think the Mets need to address this winter?