NY Mets: Top 12 free agents the team should look to sign this winter

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Sep 28, 2021; New York City, New York, USA; New York Mets starting pitcher Noah Syndergaard (34) throws against the Miami Marlins during the first inning of game two of a doubleheader at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Andy Marlin-USA TODAY Sports /

6) NY Mets free agent target Noah Syndergaard

Admittedly, I had a really tough time knowing where to put Noah Syndergaard on this list. I want him back. He’s a core member of the Mets franchise. He belongs in New York.

At the same time, two innings in late September don’t exactly prove he is worthy of a big fat contract. Bringing him back is important but also not the most necessary move for the Mets to make.

I fully expect Syndergaard to accept the qualifying offer he has now received. This isn’t the greatest scenario possible but it’s not my money. The preferred choice from a financial standpoint might be to work out a multi-year deal worth less than the $18.4 million hit it will put on the payroll next season.

The trouble with Syndergaard is I can see any team with payroll to burn taking a risk on him, particularly those with less to lose because of the QO. Still youthful enough to give him a year to work his way back, Syndergaard will have a lot of suitors this winter if the Mets let him slip out of their grasp.

I’m confident enough that Syndergaard will remain with the Mets. There’s mutual interest and a clear need to make sure Thor stays in the Big Apple—in Queens of course. We don’t need him visiting The Bronx except to take on the New York Yankees or maybe visit the zoo.