The Mets should have interest in bringing a familiar face back to Queens from the Padres
Seth Lugo initially left the Mets because he was unlikely to be used as a starting pitcher in a deep Mets rotation. In this scenario, the Mets would trade for Lugo out of desperation in that same spot.
Since departing the Big Apple, Lugo has found success with San Diego. He carries a 4.01 ERA with an impressive 8.2 SO/9 ratio as well. While he hasn't always been the most efficient, Lugo has been a reliable 5th starter for the Padres all season.
That end of the rotation depth is exactly what the Mets are missing this season. That role was supposed to belong to Carlos Carrasco, who has struggled mightily so far with a 6.19 ERA over the past ten starts. Tylor Megill fizzled out as well, having recently been demoted to Triple A following a few rough starts. The fifth rotation spot is wide open for the Mets, who desperately need rotational help to avoid losing any more games.
If New York had a chance to turn back time, many fans would be sure to pay Lugo and guarantee him a starting job. Instead, the team should look towards reacquiring the long time Met should the Padres decide to sell, and he can lock down that 5th starter role for the next two seasons.