The New York Mets have had a solid season considering that they decreased spending and were not expected to contend in 2024.
At 74-64, New York is just a half-game behind the Atlanta Braves for the final National League Wild Card spot, and they could be a team that surprises people if they ultimately reach the postseason.
However, they'll have some work to do this offseason, particularly with their starting rotation.
According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, a key breakout starter is expected to hit the free agent market.
"New York Mets starter Sean Manaea, barring unforeseen circumstances will opt out of his contract and hit the free agent market for the third consecutive winter, putting him in line for a lucrative multi-year contract," Nightengale wrote.
Manaea has had a strong 2024 season with the Mets. He signed a two-year, $26 million contract last offseason and negotiated an opt-out clause after the first year of the deal.
The 32-year-old left-hander has started 27 games for the Mets this year. He's 11-5 with a 3.35 ERA in 150 2/3 innings of work. He also has punched out 154 batters and posted a 1.12 WHIP.
Manaea has obviously bounced back quite nicely from a difficult 2023 season in which he posted a 4.44 ERA with the San Francisco Giants. He can serve as a solid middle-of-the-rotation starter for a team in need of pitching.
His market should be competitive, but it will be interesting to see if the Mets are able to re-sign him or if they'll have to go in a different direction.
More MLB: Mets listed as possible fit for Orioles ace ahead of offseason
