New York Mets: Ranking the top four extension candidates

Marcus Stroman accepted a qualifying offer for the 2021 season, but the Mets should explore extending him beyond just this season

Before opting out of the 2020 season, the trade for Marcus Stroman that initially had Mets fans scratching their head looked like a blessing. When news broke about Noah Syndergaard needing Tommy John surgery, Stroman initially provided stability behind deGrom. Obviously, Stroman opted out and the rotation behind deGrom imploded.

It’s a new year, however, with a new owner, a new front office, and an entirely new feel. Shortly after accepting the qualifying offer, Stroman explained that hearing Steve Cohen talk about his vision and desires for the team’s future played a big part in his decision to come back to Queens. This certainly helps the club this year, but also is important when thinking about the fiery pitcher’s future after this season.

Stroman will be a free agent, unless he agrees to an extension with the Mets, which is something that the team should consider. Obviously out of the four players listed, Stroman’s extension is the least urgent but is still important nevertheless. At 31, Stroman still has productive years left and as suggested with Syndergaard, it would be important to secure both talent and depth in the rotation.

If the Mets could guarantee a rotation of deGrom, Carrasco, Syndergaard, and Stroman over the next three years, it would highly increase their chances at a title run. Of course, there are injuries, regression amongst other things that naturally happen over the course of a season/career. However, when looking at the free agent class ahead and the window that exists currently led by the best pitcher in baseball, locking up Stroman for the back end of the rotation should be a priority for the Mets.

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What order would you prioritize these soon-to-be free agents?