NY Mets: Building the perfect yet realistic starting rotation for 2021

The New York Mets had a team ERA of 4.98, which ranked 22nd in Major League Baseball. The rotation was a big reason why. Hopefully, with these upgrades, the Mets can pitch better and win more games in 2021.

The New York Mets have already made a couple of moves in Steve Cohen’s first offseason as the owner of the franchise. The Mets have signed James McCann to be their new starting catcher, and Trevor May to help in the bullpen late in games. I like both of those signings a lot.

However, there are still some holes on this team. Center field is a big one. Brandon Nimmo was in center field every day last season, and it’s safe to say that he’d be better off in a corner outfield spot. Luckily for the Mets, George Springer is available in free agency. I fully expect the Mets to sign him.

Their other big hole is with their starting rotation. Last season, the Mets had guys like Michael Wacha, Rick Porcello, and Steven Matz starting games. Those guys all had ERA’s over 5.64 and were a huge reason for the Mets demise in 2020.

With the offense the Mets will put on the field, I believe adding two quality arms will make this team one that can expect to make the playoffs. The rotation as structured right now is not enough. Unfortunately, free agency is a bit thin when it comes to starting pitching, but there are still options I believe would be good fits for the Mets.

Right now, we know Jacob deGrom and Marcus Stroman will be in their rotation. After that, there are a ton of question marks. Hopefully, Cohen, Sandy Alderson, and new GM Jared Porter can figure out a way to build this dream, but realistic starting rotation into a reality.