The New York Mets need fresh arms, and they need them soon.
After exhausting their bullpen in the first half of the season, the Mets will probably look to add both starters and relievers. The rotation could be the greater need, because there are so many starters who have either spent time on the injured list or are out for the season.
New York hasn't been eager to pay starters on long contracts since David Stearns took over as president of baseball operations. But one would have to think Stearns would be willing to take on a rental, even if the pitcher in question has a reasonably high salary.
One baseball analyst thinks they can find that rental from the Arizona Diamondbacks.
During the most recent episode of the "Talkin' Baseball" podcast, Jomboy Media's Jake Storiale predicted that the Mets would acquire Zac Gallen from the D-backs in a deadline blockbuster.
"The Mets need some more arms," Storiale said. "You can't have enough arms come October... Zac Gallen had his two best starts in New York this year, although he just had another good start.
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"I think with what they (the Mets) can do with their pitchers, I think Zac Gallen down the stretch, playoff experience, I know it's not his most impressive statistics, (but) the Mets tap into Zac Gallen."
Gallen finished third in Cy Young Award voting two years ago, and seemed to be setting himself up for a nine-figure payday in free agency with a solid year in 2024. But his 5.40 ERA this year is tanking his value.
It's not guaranteed that the D-backs will sell, but the sentiment is building that they'll look to offload expiring free agents from an overcrowded roster. Gallen, who's having the worst season of anyone who gets regular playing time in Arizona, might be the first to go if so.
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