The New York Mets have recently taken first place in the National League East away from the Philadelphia Phillies. They hold a half-game lead over the defending division champions.
The Mets will be buyers this year at the trade deadline, which is now less than a week away. They could use a little bit of help with their pitching staff.
Their starting rotation and bullpen have both dealt with various injuries this season, and it wouldn't hurt to have an extra arm to shore things up.
Right-hander Luis Severino is listed as one of the top available starters by Zachary D. Rymer of Bleacher Report. Rymer predicts that the Athletics' veteran will end up being traded back to the Mets.
"This is a two-time All-Star whose right arm remains a live wire. The Mets got a 3.91 ERA and 182.0 innings out of it in 2024, and they sure could use more pitching of that ilk amid a rotation that is beset by question marks," Rymer wrote.
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Severino has struggled with the Athletics this year, going 4-11 with a 4.95 ERA in 22 starts. However, he performed well with the Mets last season.
Perhaps a return to New York could help him find his groove again. The Athletics are well out of postseason contention, while the Mets are firmly in the race.
They could use another starter, and Severino would provide a solid veteran presence in their rotation. He pitched well at Citi Field in 2024, so returning to a familiar environment, and one that would put him with a contending team, could be just what he needs.
Severino helped guide the Mets to the NLCS last year, where they fell just two games short against the eventual World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers.
It will be interesting to see if the Mets try to make the A's an offer.
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