4 Mets pitchers we'd rather see starting than Carlos Carrasco

2) NY Mets pitcher Mike Vasil should be in the rotation over Carlos Carrasco

Joey Lucchesi is the most realistic option to replace Carrasco, Mike Vasil would be the most fun option. Vasil is the ninth-ranked Mets prospect according to MLB Pipeline but their number one pitching prospect. He's shot up their ranks thanks to a strong 2023 campaign.

The right-hander pitched well in AA Binghamton to earn a promotion to AAA Syracuse in June. He got off to a rough start in Syracuse, but has pitched well in his last three starts.

Earlier this month in a start against the Yankees AAA affiliate, Vasil took a no-hitter into the ninth inning. He allowed a leadoff single to lose his no-hit bid, but he pitched eight scoreless innings overall, allowing just one hit and two walks while striking out seven.

Vasil allowed three runs in his next start, and one in the start after that. He has a 1.83 ERA in his last three starts overall spanning 19.2 innings pitched.

The Mets can see if Vasil is an option to be part of the 2024 Opening Day rotation. If he pitches well, he will be. If he doesn't, he won't be. I don't see what there is to lose outside of adding him to the 40-man roster a year earlier than they'd have to for Rule-5 reasons.