NY Mets Trade Rumors: Jim Duquette weighs in on 5 starting pitchers the team could add

Michael Pineda would fit the bill as another former Yankees arm

Yet another former member of the New York Yankees for the Mets to consider, Michael Pineda is currently with the Minnesota Twins and pitching well. At 32 and headed to free agency this winter, he’s nothing more than a rental for this organization.

I feel Pineda’s name will be attached closely to Mets trade rumors this winter because of his already existing connection to New York. Having pitched in the Bronx for four seasons, he’s a name many people are familiar with already.

Pineda has been much better in Minnesota. His ERA is about 20 points lower. He has been more of a top-of-the-rotation arm than a fifth starter during his time with them.

As Duquette notes, the Twins are unlikely to go anywhere this season. Guys like Pineda on expiring contracts are sure to capture the attention of Zack Scott. Knowing they can move on from him after 2021, it makes sense to call the Twins and see what it will cost.

Amazingly, Pineda has actually never pitched in the postseason despite playing for some good teams. This would have been an added bonus in my dreamy blue eyes. For a spin on this subject, maybe we can just say “he’s hungry for his opportunity.”

Don’t sell the farm for Pineda, but don’t neglect the idea either.