It sounds like the Mets, Dodgers, and Phillies all are pursuing the same hurler
How will the New York Mets spend the remainder of their offseason?
It’s obvious that New York has been active this offseason, making a number of acquisitions. The Mets are attempting to get back on track after a disappointing 2023 season. David Stearns, a former official with the Milwaukee Brewers, was hired by New York to serve as the team’s president of baseball operations, and he has since engaged in backroom dealings.
Although the Mets have added a few players, the bullpen still needs some assistance. According to MLB Network’s Jon Morosi, New York is reportedly seeking top-tier right-handed free agency reliever Robert Stephenson since they are aware of this.
“As the Josh Hader talks pick up with Houston, per Ken Rosenthal and Chandler Rome, the market is moving forward for Robert Stephenson, the top available righty reliever,” Morosi stated. “Among the teams interested in Stephenson are the Los Angeles Dodgers, the Philadelphia Phillies, and the New York Mets.
“As the Josh Hader talks pick up with Houston, per Ken Rosenthal and Chandler Rome, the market is moving forward for Robert Stephenson, the top available righty reliever,” Morosi stated. “The Mets, (Los Angeles Dodgers), and (Philadelphia Phillies) are among the clubs with interest in Stephenson.”
In 60 appearances with the Pittsburgh Pirates and Tampa Bay Rays combined last season, Stephenson recorded a 3.10 ERA with a 77-to-16 strikeout-to-walk ratio in 52 1/3 innings pitched.
The 30-year-old’s best performance came following his June trade to Tampa Bay. In 42 games with the Rays, he recorded a 2.35 ERA and an astounding 60-to-8 strikeout-to-walk ratio.
Edwin DÃaz’s return to the mound is expected to further strengthen New York’s bullpen. The Mets may make significant progress if they could sign a player similar to Stephenson.