Mets and Yankees Eye Rotation Market Upgrades
The New York Mets and Yankees are actively seeking upgrades in their rotation as the off-season progresses. Both teams have made significant moves recently to bolster their pitching staff and overall roster.
Mets Enhance Their Rotation
The Mets recently strengthened their rotation by acquiring right-handed pitcher Freddy Peralta from the Milwaukee Brewers. This trade involved New York sending two top prospects, Jett Williams and Brandon Sproat, to Milwaukee. With this move, the Mets aim to secure their long-anticipated need for a top-of-the-line starter.
Peralta’s impressive track record includes finishing fifth in the National League Cy Young voting and being a two-time All-Star. Together with Nolan McLean, who had a remarkable debut in 2025, Peralta is expected to form a formidable top duo in the Mets’ rotation.
Rotation Dynamics
Alongside Peralta and McLean, several other pitchers are vying for rotation spots. These include:
- David Peterson
- Kodai Senga
- Clay Holmes
- Sean Manaea
Additionally, right-hander Tobias Myers joined the Mets in the trade. The franchise has considerable depth in starting pitchers, with prospects like Jonah Tong and Christian Scott—who is recovering from Tommy John surgery—also in the mix.
Yankees Secure Bellinger
The New York Yankees made headlines by signing Cody Bellinger to a five-year contract worth $162.5 million. This agreement includes opt-out clauses after the 2027 and 2028 seasons. Bellinger’s addition significantly bolsters the Yankees’ outfield, creating a strong trio alongside Aaron Judge and Trent Grisham.
While Bellinger seems to fill a crucial role, questions arise regarding young outfielder Jasson Dominguez and top prospect Spencer Jones. With Grisham on a one-year deal, both prospects may remain as valuable depth options.
Potential Further Moves
The Yankees are not yet finished strengthening their roster. Prior interest in the Peralta trade market indicates they may continue to seek high-caliber pitchers. Recently, they also acquired lefty Ryan Weathers from the Miami Marlins, enhancing their rotation depth.
Market for Starting Pitchers Post-Peralta
With Peralta now off the market, teams are reassessing their options for acquiring front-of-the-rotation talent. Two prominent pitchers remain: Framber Valdez and a less coveted Zac Gallen, whose performance dipped in the 2025 season.
Teams Seeking Upgrades
Several clubs are actively looking to improve their pitching rotations:
- Baltimore Orioles: Interested in landing a top starter, but still seeking a well-established arm.
- Chicago Cubs: Recently traded for promising right-hander Edward Cabrera.
- Atlanta Braves: May need pitching help but are cautious with spending.
- Arizona Diamondbacks: Limited by payroll constraints.
- Los Angeles Angels: Saved money through contract adjustments but have not yet made major free agency moves.
As both the Mets and Yankees continue to navigate the rotation market, the coming weeks will be crucial for their 2026 season strategies.
