Mets Reunion Predicted With $16.6 Million Free Agent Amid Rotation Injury Crisis

The New York Mets are facing a significant challenge with their starting rotation as the 2025 season approaches. Key injuries have left the team without two of their projected top starters: Frankie Montas and Sean Manaea. Montas, who signed a two-year, $34 million contract with the Mets in December 2024, is sidelined due to a high-grade lat strain, expected to keep him out for at least three months. Manaea, a 33-year-old veteran, re-signed with the Mets in December 2024 on a three-year, $75 million deal but is now expected to miss Opening Day and possibly several weeks more due to a strained oblique muscle. citeturn0news9

In light of these setbacks, the Mets are considering re-signing 36-year-old left-handed pitcher José Quintana, who was a key contributor to their rotation in 2024. Quintana posted a solid 3.75 ERA over 170.1 innings last season and played a crucial role in the Mets’ postseason run, including a strong performance in the Wild Card Series and Division Series. Despite his contributions, the Mets allowed Quintana to enter free agency without extending him the predetermined $21.05 million qualifying offer. citeturn0search1

Quintana remains unsigned as spring training begins, and his market value is projected at just under $16.6 million over a two-year contract. Given the Mets’ current rotation injuries and the need for experienced depth, re-signing Quintana appears to be a logical and cost-effective solution. This move would bolster the rotation without depleting the team’s prospects and provide a stabilizing presence for the upcoming season. citeturn0search1

The Mets’ rotation depth is further challenged by the reliance on converted reliever Clay Holmes, who has not started a Major League game since 2018, and 32-year-old Japanese import Kodai Senga, who started just one game for the Mets in 2024 due to injuries. With Montas and Manaea sidelined, the team is in urgent need of experienced starters to maintain competitiveness in the National League East. citeturn0search1

In summary, the Mets are facing a rotation injury crisis with the loss of Montas and Manaea. Re-signing José Quintana, who has a proven track record with the team, is a strategic move to reinforce the rotation and ensure stability as the season progresses.

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