Mets Trade Deadline Needs: Best Bullpen Options from 5 Teams
Sportsgrid Staff
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Detroit Tigers
The Detroit Tigers are likely to be sellers at this year's trade deadline, making them a prime candidate for the Mets to bolster their bullpen. Jason Foley, with his nearly 97 MPH sinker and a 52.8% groundball rate, is an attractive option. Despite a 4.60 FIP suggesting some luck in his 2.97 ERA, Foley's ability to keep the ball on the ground makes him valuable. His arbitration eligibility next season adds to his appeal. Another potential target is Will Vest, a reliable right-hander with a 3.27 ERA and team control until 2028. Lefty Andrew Chafin, a veteran with a 3.66 ERA this season, could also be packaged in a deal, offering the Mets an upgrade from their current bullpen setup.
Trade Targets: RHP Jason Foley, LHP Andrew Chafin, RHP Will Vest
New York Mets Bullpen Struggles
The New York Mets have faced significant challenges with their bullpen this season. The losses of Brooks Raley and Drew Smith to Tommy John surgery, along with standout relievers Sean Reid-Foley and Reed Garrett on the injured list, have left a void. Edwin Diaz, the bullpen anchor, has struggled with injuries, a suspension, and inconsistent performances, posting a 4.05 ERA and converting only 10 of 15 save opportunities.
While rookie Dedniel Núñez (2.35 ERA) and Jose Butto have provided some stability, and Phil Maton's recent addition brings veteran presence, the bullpen's depth remains a concern. Veterans Adam Ottavino and Jake Diekman have underperformed, with Diekman particularly at risk of being cut due to a vesting player option. The Mets need to add at least two reliable arms at the trade deadline to solidify their bullpen and maintain leads without over-relying on high-leverage relievers.
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Tampa Bay Rays
The Tampa Bay Rays, sitting at .500, could decide to sell some bullpen assets. Pete Fairbanks, with a career 3.21 ERA and team control through 2025, is a premier target. His strikeouts are down this year, but he remains effective at limiting home runs. Jason Adam, with a 1.67 ERA, offers another elite option with two years of arbitration left. Colin Poche, a lefty with a 3.24 ERA, is also appealing, especially with his solid performance against left-handers. Any combination of these relievers would strengthen the Mets' bullpen and provide long-term benefits.
Trade Targets: RHP Pete Fairbanks, RHP Jason Adam, LHP Colin Poche
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Miami Marlins
The Mets could benefit from adding a lefty like Miami Marlins' closer Tanner Scott, who boasts a 1.34 ERA and 14 saves. His dominance against both lefties and righties makes him an ideal fit, though acquiring him would be costly. A.J. Puk, with a 4.73 ERA, has shown improvement in relief after a failed starting experiment. Puk’s team control through 2026 and potential for upside make him a project worth considering. Pairing Scott or Puk with a dependable setup man would significantly enhance the Mets' bullpen.
Trade Targets: LHP Tanner Scott, LHP A.J. Puk
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Washington Nationals
Trading within the division might be challenging, but the Washington Nationals have bullpen pieces worth considering. Kyle Finnegan, with a 2.45 ERA and 25 saves, is a standout. His extra year of control makes him a valuable asset, even if it means parting with a top-10 prospect. Adding Dylan Floro, with a 2.11 ERA, or Derek Law, with a 3.18 ERA, could sweeten the deal. Both pitchers offer reliability and control, making them attractive additions to the Mets' bullpen.
Trade Targets: RHP Kyle Finnegan, RHP Dylan Floro, RHP Derek Law
Toronto Blue Jays
The Toronto Blue Jays could be an ideal trade partner if they decide to move some of their bullpen pieces. Chad Green, with a career 3.16 ERA and familiarity with New York, stands out as a top target. Green’s contract extends through 2025, making him a valuable addition despite some concerning underlying numbers. Yimi Garcia, with a 2.57 ERA and impressive strikeout rate, and Trevor Richards, with a 3.62 ERA, are other potential targets. Both are free agents after this season, making them rental options that wouldn't require the Mets to part with top prospects.
Trade Targets: RHP Chad Green, RHP Yimi Garcia, RHP Trevor Richards
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Detroit Tigers
The Detroit Tigers are likely to be sellers at this year's trade deadline, making them a prime candidate for the Mets to bolster their bullpen. Jason Foley, with his nearly 97 MPH sinker and a 52.8% groundball rate, is an attractive option. Despite a 4.60 FIP suggesting some luck in his 2.97 ERA, Foley's ability to keep the ball on the ground makes him valuable. His arbitration eligibility next season adds to his appeal. Another potential target is Will Vest, a reliable right-hander with a 3.27 ERA and team control until 2028. Lefty Andrew Chafin, a veteran with a 3.66 ERA this season, could also be packaged in a deal, offering the Mets an upgrade from their current bullpen setup.
Trade Targets: RHP Jason Foley, LHP Andrew Chafin, RHP Will Vest
New York Mets Bullpen Struggles
The New York Mets have faced significant challenges with their bullpen this season. The losses of Brooks Raley and Drew Smith to Tommy John surgery, along with standout relievers Sean Reid-Foley and Reed Garrett on the injured list, have left a void. Edwin Diaz, the bullpen anchor, has struggled with injuries, a suspension, and inconsistent performances, posting a 4.05 ERA and converting only 10 of 15 save opportunities.
While rookie Dedniel Núñez (2.35 ERA) and Jose Butto have provided some stability, and Phil Maton's recent addition brings veteran presence, the bullpen's depth remains a concern. Veterans Adam Ottavino and Jake Diekman have underperformed, with Diekman particularly at risk of being cut due to a vesting player option. The Mets need to add at least two reliable arms at the trade deadline to solidify their bullpen and maintain leads without over-relying on high-leverage relievers.
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