Mets target Japanese star Roki Sasaki while evaluating pitching prospects like Sean Manaea and Garrett Crochet.

Mets Turn Focus to Roki Sasaki

The New York Mets are actively pursuing Japanese pitching phenom Roki Sasaki as part of their offseason strategy to bolster their rotation. In a bid to stand out among a crowded field of suitors, the Mets recently presented Sasaki’s agent, Joel Wolfe, with an extensive pitch detailing the franchise’s strengths.

Central to their pitch is the Mets’ state-of-the-art pitching lab, a robust track record of developing pitchers, and their successful integration of Japanese players, including Kodai Senga. President of baseball operations David Stearns underscored the team’s unique resources, joking that they may have missed an opportunity by not including a Grimace mascot in their pitch.

Sasaki, arriving as an international amateur free agent, faces financial constraints due to bonus pool limits. His total compensation won’t significantly exceed $7 million, regardless of the team he chooses, making non-financial factors crucial in his decision-making process.

Sasaki’s Unique Preferences

Sasaki’s agent, Wolfe, emphasized the pitcher’s meticulous nature. “Roki is somewhat quiet. He has a dry sense of humor, very witty, but not verbose. He doesn’t necessarily love people that are verbose,” Wolfe noted, adding that Sasaki values close-knit relationships and thorough analysis.

Sasaki is paying attention to various factors, including team performance, pitching development programs, and the experiences of other Japanese players in the majors. His decision could hinge on intangible factors like weather, comfort, and organizational culture rather than location or financial incentives.

Kodai Senga’s Health and Connection

Sasaki’s quiet demeanor and analytical approach echo traits seen in Kodai Senga, another Japanese pitcher currently with the Mets. While Senga faced injuries during the 2023 season, the team expects him to be healthy and fully ready for 2024. Stearns assured that the Mets are confident in Senga’s progress and plan to integrate Sasaki into a similar supportive environment.

Other Pitching Targets: Manaea and Crochet

While pursuing Sasaki, the Mets are also considering other avenues to strengthen their rotation. Sean Manaea, a left-hander with an affinity for New York, is seen as a more cost-effective alternative to high-priced free agents like Max Fried and Corbin Burnes.

Additionally, the Mets are exploring the trade market for pitchers like Garrett Crochet of the Chicago White Sox. With two years of team control remaining, Crochet offers frontline potential, making him a valuable target. The Mets have expressed a willingness to part with top prospects if the deal fits their long-term goals.

Reliever Options: Jonathan Loáisiga

The bullpen is another area of focus, with the Mets reportedly expressing interest in Jonathan Loáisiga, a Yankees reliever known for his high upside despite recent injury setbacks. Loáisiga’s dynamic performance when healthy, including a 2.98 ERA since 2020, makes him an attractive option for a team seeking affordable, high-impact arms.

A Comprehensive Approach

The Mets’ offseason strategy reflects a balance between high-profile international signings, strategic trades, and calculated free-agent moves. Whether they land Sasaki or pivot to other options, their proactive approach signals a commitment to building a formidable pitching staff for the upcoming season.