3 Mets trade targets who could give them high-leverage relief innings

3) Michael Kopech

The trade market will be full of reliever options this summer but the Mets must be smart and promote the highest return possible, that is, good stuff pitchers who have the potential to be efficient with the necessary adjustments without overpaying. Possibly in the case of Michael Kopech, former starter and now reliever for the Chicago White Sox, his pedigree as a former top prospect makes him a sought-after and expensive target.

However, its market value had not been as low as it is now. Control problems and walks have caused his results to become increasingly worse with an ERA of 5.43 last season, the highest of his career.

However, Kopech has some still impressive stuff. His overall stuff+ sits above 140 where pitchers like Jared Jones, Corbin Burnes, Tarik Skubal, and Zack Wheeler rank lower in this category.

His fastball continues to be electric with an average speed of 98 mph, inducing a batting average below .230 and a swing and miss above 33%, something considerable considering the level from this point onwards that is mostly seen in breaking pitches. Likewise, the stuff+ derived from the fastball is located at an elite and top level in the league, but within its arsenal, location is still a point to improve.

At his current level of production, Kopech could be a viable option for the Mets. With his potential, the Mets could be acquiring an elite pitcher in the bullpen for the remainder of the season capable of helping the team push toward a postseason berth.