MLB Analyst surprised by Mets' relentless Yoshinobu Yamamoto pursuit - "I haven't seen them want a free agent this much"
The New York Mets have reportedly set their sights on the top pitcher in the market, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, making him their first, second, and third priority this offseason, according to MLB Analyst Todd Seile during a show on SNY. The Winter Meetings in Nashville have become the backdrop for the Mets’ pursuit of the 25-year-old Japanese sensation.
Yamamoto, the recent recipient of the Sawamura Award, equivalent to the Cy Young in Nippon Professional Baseball, has emerged as a dominant force in the Japanese league.
With a remarkable career ERA of 1.64 over the past five seasons, including a stellar 1.16 in the most recent campaign, Yamamoto has drawn comparisons to top Japanese pitchers like Yu Darvish, Masahiro Tanaka and Hideo Nomo:
"I think it’s a huge priority for this team and I wouldn’t go so far as to say that the offseason would be a failure if they’re not able to land him, but I think fans are expecting that this team should be committed to winning rather than a rebuild. " – Todd Zeile.
The New York Mets’ interest in Yamamoto is not solely based on his on-field success. At just 25 years old, he represents a rare opportunity to acquire an ace-caliber pitcher with significant years ahead.
The bidding for Yamamoto is expected to be competitive, with an industry consensus suggesting a contract value exceeding $200 million.
While rumors circulated that Yamamoto may prefer a West Coast destination like the LA Dodgers, sources indicate that he is open to considering all potential markets. Contrary to speculation, New York, with its similarities to Osaka, where Yamamoto played all seven of his NPB seasons, emerges as a realistic option:
"I haven’t seen the Mets want an available free agent that much in quite a long time. I think they’re really heavily into this guy, but unfortunately for them so are many other teams." - Andy Martino
The Mets’ financial prowess makes them a top contender for the services of Yoshinobu Yamamoto
The Mets, led by owner Steve Cohen, possess the financial prowess to make a top-market offer, putting them in prime position to secure Yamamoto’s services. The team’s recent success in integrating Japanese talent, notably Kodai Senga, provides a supportive environment for Yamamoto’s potential transition.
The Mets have a tight pitching rotation, making Yamamoto’s addition crucial not just for the upcoming season, but for long-term success.
As the 45-day window for teams to sign Yamamoto expires on Jan. 4, the MLB Winter Meetings could play a pivotal role in advancing negotiations. While the Mets face formidable competition, including more than a dozen interested clubs, the possibility of securing Yamamoto remains a distinct and compelling prospect for the team.