2) Michael Kopech
My tune on Michael Kopech has completely changed. It’s not just because he is pitching better either. The addition of Kopech to the Mets is more strategic than anything. The cost should still be a little insane considering the extra year of control he has. Despite being 2-8 with a 4.74 ERA in 43.2 innings, Kopech is a talented arm for the Mets to consider and maybe not a guy to immediately land on the roster either.
Kopech has those beautiful minor league options available to him. How ‘bout that? Make a trade deadline deal for a guy who hasn’t pitched in the minor leagues since 2018 and send him there immediately. The Mets need to keep room open on the roster to give themselves a fresh arm, especially with Adrian Houser no longer here either. This is where Kopech has added value.
The Mets did something similar with Trevor Williams back in 2021. They sent him to Syracuse and recalled him when the need for some pitching knocked on the door. Kopech would immediately land on the Mets roster right now. However, five of their current bullpen roster spots are occupied by guys without options. One is Jose Butto who isn’t going anywhere. The Mets also have Reed Garrett (optional but good) and Sean Reid-Foley (not optional) coming back.
Kopech opens up some different possibilities. Don’t overpay, but don’t pass on a good opportunity.