This NY Mets free agency reunion would secure a massive trade win over Phillies

Brooks Raley was sensational for the New York Mets in 2026. Even as the team he pitched for sank like a ship taking on water, the 38-year-old southpaw accumulated a 1.96 ERA and 3.10 FIP over 45 appearances out of the bullpen. He was one of the most trustworthy relief options for both Carlos Mendoza and Andy Green, tallying 0.8 fWAR that ranked tied for fourth among the relief corps despite the fact that he was traded in August.

Of course, that trade sent him to the Philadelphia Phillies for a pair of prospects (Luke Gabrysh and John Spikerman). And though neither minor leaguer broke out once arriving in the Mets' system, their gradual development was far more impressive than the contributions Raley made in Philly; there, he recorded a 7.94 ERA in just 11⅓ innings.

In fact, he was so bad that he didn't even make the Phillies' Wild Card Round roster. Due for free agency this offseason, he certainly won't be returning to his new team after that disastrous performance.

But what about a reunion with the Mets?

Mets should jump at the chance to re-sign Brooks Raley after he pitched his way out of Phillies' plans

Prior to getting traded, Raley was a true high-leverage reliever for the Mets, mostly because he was able to stifle both left-handed and right-handed hitters. It wasn't surprising to see him cruise against the former (lefties hit .186/.254/.288 off him) given how dominant he's been in that split throughout his career, but his newfound ability to shut down righties (.216/.307/.330) was a genuine game-changer in terms of the role he could play.

It's true that the Mets got a number of late-season breakouts that might change the shape of their bullpen heading into 2027 -- Nate Lavender (1.66 ERA, 1.85 FIP) ran away with the top lefty job down the stretch, Daniel Duarte recorded a 2.65 ERA from the trade deadline onward, and even Kodai Senga looked useful in a late-inning role at times. But even if those performances continue into next year, there's always room for a proven, trusted reliever like Raley.

Not to mention, signing him now would only increase the ire of Phillies fans who accused Raley of being a "double-agent" during the second half. The front office obviously shouldn't be making decisions based on what will upset opposing fanbases, but the opportunity to strengthen their own relief corps while weakening an NL East rival shouldn't go unnoticed.

Plus, Raley's struggles in Philadelphia should only serve to lower his price in free agency. The Mets wouldn't have had any issues affording him in the first place, but it helps with budgeting for the rest of the offseason.

Add it all up and you've got a reunion that makes ample sense from both sides, at least if Raley considers the Mets a contender after their ugly showing this season.

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