Five Free Agents the Mets Should Target This Winter, Reflecting on Missed Opportunities Last Year…

The New York Mets are gearing up for a crucial offseason, aiming to erase the disappointments of the 2023 season.

Despite high hopes for a World Series run, the Mets found themselves out of contention by July. While Billy Eppler faced challenges in transforming the team from a 75-win outfit to a championship contender, there were missed opportunities in the previous season that could have improved the team.

1. J.D. Martinez: The Mets contemplated acquiring J.D. Martinez in both the 2022 trade deadline and the 2023 offseason but chose to pass due to concerns about his age, recent performance dip, and limited defensive capabilities. However, Martinez’s resurgence with the Dodgers, earning an All-Star nod with 33 home runs and 103 RBIs, makes him a compelling option for the Mets to consider, especially given their offensive struggles.
2. Andrew Chafin: Despite being a longtime target for the Mets, Andrew Chafin’s subpar performance in the 2023 season with a 4.73 ERA in 63 appearances might have dimmed his appeal. However, given the volatility of relievers and the Mets’ bullpen challenges, taking a chance on Chafin as a second lefty could bolster their relief corps.
3. Kevin Kiermaier: The Mets might have considered Kevin Kiermaier last offseason if Brandon Nimmo hadn’t been re-signed. Kiermaier’s stock has risen after a strong season with the Blue Jays, slashing .265/.322/.419 and winning his fourth Gold Glove. While the outfield situation is different now, Kiermaier could still provide valuable depth and defensive prowess.
4. Matt Moore: The Mets overlooked the opportunity to sign Matt Moore as a bullpen addition last offseason, opting for relievers with options. Moore went on to have a successful season with a 2.56 ERA in 50 appearances. Considering the Mets’ bullpen needs, Moore’s reliability and ability to record more than three outs could make him a crucial asset.
5. Adam Duvall: In the quest for a versatile fourth outfielder last year, the Mets targeted Adam Duvall before he secured a starting role with the Red Sox. Despite settling for Tommy Pham, a signing of Duvall could bring more power and flexibility to the Mets’ lineup, with his ability to play all three outfield positions.

Reflecting on these past opportunities, the Mets have a chance to rectify their decisions and address key areas of concern in the upcoming winter signings.