Insider Predicts Mets Will Sign Coveted Two-Time Cy Young Winner

New York is still looking for an ace

It's no secret that the New York Mets are in desperate need of starting pitching this winter after losing two of their top starters at last year's trade deadline.

The competition for starting pitching has been stiff this offseason and the Mets have yet to land a solid arm who they can rely on alongside standout Japanese hurler Kodai Senga.

One insider predicts the Mets will land a highly-coveted hurler even if the top starter on the market turns them down.

"(Blake) Snell’s market has been quiet but most team executives believe that if (Yoshinobu) Yamamoto declines the Mets’ offer, they will pivot to Snell," The Athletic's Jim Bowden wrote Tuesday.

Snell posted a 14-9 record with a 2.25 ERA, 234-to-99 strikeout-to-walk ratio, .181 batting average against, and 1.19 WHIP in 180 innings pitched for the San Diego Padres in 2023 -- earning his second Cy Young.

The 31-year-old pitcher has dominated throughout his eight-season career and is right behind Yamamoto as the second most sought-after arm on the market.

Rumors have been floating around that the Mets are actively pursuing a contract with Yamamoto but the competition for the Japanese sensation is highly competitive.

New York will have to dig into their pockets again if they intend on landing Yamamoto or Snell and it's likely to see Mets owner Steven Cohen do so for at least one of those arms -- that is if they are looking to compete next season.

Will the Mets acquire Snell next season?

More MLB: Mets Reportedly 'Still Showing Interest' In Signing Gold Glove Outfielder