Mets Prioritize Rotation Upgrade in 2026-2027 Offseason
With the 2026-2027 offseason officially underway, the New York Mets have identified upgrading their starting rotation as a primary organizational focus. The club is exploring multiple avenues to address this need, including negotiations with premium free agents and potential trades for established arms.
Tarik Skubal and Michael King are among the top starting pitchers available in free agency this winter. Both pitchers are expected to command substantial financial commitments from interested teams. While the Mets will engage in discussions with Skubal, King, and other available starters, front office officials are also evaluating the trade market as a viable path to bolstering the rotation.
Sean Manaea is currently part of the Mets' roster, having pitched against the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Field earlier in the season. However, the organization's stated goal remains strengthening the overall depth and quality of the starting staff for the upcoming campaign.
Rays Ace Drew Rasmussen Emerges as Top Trade Candidate
Tampa Bay Rays right-hander Drew Rasmussen has emerged as a significant name on the trade market. The 31-year-old ace posted a 2.67 earned run average with 174 strikeouts and a 0.91 walks plus hits per inning pitched (WHIP) across 172 innings during the 2026 season.
The Rays exercised Rasmussen's $20 million club option following their World Series defeat. However, reports indicate that a trade for the veteran starter is increasingly likely. This potential move stems from the fact that Tampa Bay has never paid a player such a high single-season salary in its 29-year franchise history.
Any acquisition of Rasmussen would require significant assets. The Rays are expected to demand at least two highly regarded prospects in return for their ace. This requirement presents a strategic challenge for the Mets, as president David Stearns has previously articulated a desire to maintain a strong farm system. Surrendering multiple top-tier prospects could complicate that long-term objective.
Logan Gilbert and MacKenzie Gore Available via Trade
Seattle Mariners starting pitcher Logan Gilbert is also viewed as a likely trade candidate. Gilbert is entering the final season of his team control and is projected to earn $15.4 million, according to MLB Trade Rumors.
Last season, Gilbert recorded a 3.73 ERA with 20 strikeouts across 186 innings. Seattle is expected to address other roster needs this offseason, making a move for Gilbert potentially sensible as he approaches free agency.
Texas Rangers May Shed MacKenzie Gore
MacKenzie Gore could find himself on the trade market after just one season with the Texas Rangers. The Rangers president of baseball operations, Chris Young, has discussed the team's desire to maintain a payroll around $190 million entering next season, potentially leading them to shed salary via Gore.
Gore is entering his final year of team control and is projected to earn $8.7 million through arbitration. He posted a 4.58 ERA in 173 innings last season with 174 strikeouts.