After a Strong Second Half, Mets Seek to Keep Manaea in New York

The New York Mets have extended a qualifying offer to left-handed pitcher Sean Manaea following a resurgent 2024 season, as reported by Jon Heyman. Valued at $21.05 million, the one-year contract is meant to secure Manaea’s services for another season or at least net the Mets a compensatory draft pick if he departs in free agency. With this move, the Mets signal that they recognize Manaea’s impact, particularly after a stellar second-half performance that helped solidify the rotation.

A Resilient Comeback Season

After a lackluster 2023 campaign with the Giants, Manaea joined the Mets on a two-year deal that included a player option for 2024—a clause he declined after a strong year on the mound. Manaea’s regular season stats are a testament to his turnaround. Over 181.2 innings, he delivered a solid 3.47 ERA and a 3.83 FIP, thanks largely to adjustments in his pitching mechanics midseason. In the final 75.2 innings, he posted an impressive 3.09 ERA, showing the kind of form that makes him a valuable asset for any pitching staff.

The 33-year-old’s late-season tweaks to his delivery allowed him to become a more effective, consistent presence on the mound. This evolution in his approach not only speaks to Manaea’s adaptability but also highlights the Mets’ savvy in bringing him onboard.

Postseason Challenges and a Tough Decision

While Manaea was essential to the Mets’ playoff push, his postseason showed signs of fatigue. Across 19.0 playoff innings, he recorded a 4.74 ERA, an indicator of the wear and tear from the long season. Still, his overall performance demonstrated his potential as a steady arm, even as the Mets pushed deeper into October.

Now faced with the qualifying offer, Manaea has a choice. Accepting the one-year, $21.05 million offer would keep him in a Mets uniform for 2025. However, Manaea is likely to decline, seeking a longer-term deal in free agency. At his age, the opportunity for a multi-year contract may be too appealing to pass up, particularly given his recent success and adjustments.

Potential Futures for Manaea and the Mets

If Manaea rejects the qualifying offer, the Mets still have the option to negotiate a new contract with him, perhaps aiming to secure a deal that aligns with both parties’ long-term plans. Should he decide to explore other opportunities, the Mets would receive a compensatory draft pick, allowing them to bolster their farm system.

Manaea’s steady second half has likely put him on the radar of multiple teams looking for an experienced lefty who’s proven he can adapt and improve. For the Mets, retaining Manaea would mean continuity in their rotation, particularly as they look to return to contention.