The New York Mets have been relatively quiet this offseason, with a lack of big-time free-agent signings or trades. However, that could all be about to change as they find themselves in a position to make a major move. This week, news broke that Tarik Skubal and the Detroit Tigers missed the January 8th deadline to settle a contract and avoid arbitration. This could potentially have huge implications for the Mets, as the two-time defending American League Cy Young winner is now on the market.
According to ESPN, Skubal and the Tigers were unable to come to an agreement on a contract before the January 8th deadline. This means that the two sides will now have to go through arbitration to determine Skubal’s salary for the upcoming season. This is a major development for both the Tigers and the Mets, as Skubal is one of the most dominant pitchers in the league and would be a game-changing addition to any team’s rotation.
For the Mets, this missed deadline could be a blessing in disguise. With the team’s new owner, Steve Cohen, at the helm, the Mets have been vocal about their desire to make a big splash this offseason. They have already made some notable moves, such as signing catcher James McCann and trading for star shortstop Francisco Lindor. However, the addition of Skubal could take their offseason to a whole new level.
Skubal has been nothing short of exceptional since making his debut with the Tigers in 2019. In his rookie season, he posted an impressive 5-4 record with a 3.47 ERA and 70 strikeouts in just 42 innings pitched. He followed that up with an even more dominant performance in 2020, finishing with a 3.23 ERA and 72 strikeouts in just 32 innings pitched. It’s no wonder he has been awarded the Cy Young two years in a row.
The Mets have been in need of a dominant starting pitcher for quite some time now. While they have some strong arms in their rotation, they have yet to find someone who can consistently perform at an elite level. Skubal would be the perfect addition to their rotation, bringing a level of talent and consistency that they have been lacking.
Of course, the Mets will have to go through the arbitration process to secure Skubal’s services. This could potentially drive up his price tag, but it’s a risk that the team should be willing to take. With Cohen’s deep pockets and the team’s desire to win, they should have no problem meeting Skubal’s demands and securing his talents for the upcoming season.
The addition of Skubal would not only benefit the Mets on the field, but it would also send a clear message to the rest of the league that they mean business. After years of disappointment and underperformance, the Mets have a chance to turn things around and become a force to be reckoned with. Skubal’s addition would be a major step in that direction.
In addition to his on-field talent, Skubal also brings a winning mentality to the table. He has proven himself to be a fierce competitor and a leader on the field. These are qualities that the Mets can greatly benefit from, as they look to build a winning culture within the organization.
Overall, the missed contract deadline between Tarik Skubal and the Detroit Tigers has presented the New York Mets with a major opportunity. With their new owner and a strong desire to win, the Mets are in a prime position to make a major move and add a two-time Cy Young winner to their roster. This move would not only greatly improve their chances of success on the field, but it would also make a statement to the rest of the league that the Mets are back and ready to compete. Let’s hope that the Mets seize this opportunity and make Skubal a part of their promising future.
