The New York Mets decided to cut back a little on spending last offseason after they finished 2023 with a 75-87 record. Instead, they chose to focus on making more frugal moves to improve their roster.
So far, cutting back on spending big hasn't hindered the Mets, as they own an 82-68 record and lead the race for the final National League Wild Card spot.
This offseason, they could get back to spending more money, and perhaps they could put some of that money towards a pitching addition or two.
Atlanta Braves right-hander Charlie Morton could be of use.
The 40-year-old right-hander isn't an ace by any means and it's always possible that he could retire at the end of the 2024 season. But even in his advanced age, he has proven to still be a reliable starter.
In 28 starts with the Braves this year, the veteran right-hander is 8-8 with a 4.01 ERA. He has pitched 155 innings, struck out 161 batters, and posted a 1.30 WHIP in addition.
If the Mets were to sign him, they would receive a reliable veteran that can be trusted to start big games when needed. He would also be a solid veteran presence in a young clubhouse and could mentor some of New York's rising stars.
Thanks to his days with the Braves, Morton is very familiar with the NL East and would hardly be pitching in unfamiliar territory.
Plucking him away from the Braves wouldn't have the same effect as doing so with Max Fried, which is also a possibility. But it would signal that the Mets are on the rise and ready to challenge the Braves and Philadelphia Phillies within the next few years.
It will be interesting to see what Morton's market looks like and if the Mets will be involved in the sweepstakes.
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