One down, two to go.
That’s how Billy Eppler can look at his offseason to-do list, with the New York Mets general manager already taking care of his top priority by re-signing All-Star closer Edwin Diaz on Sunday, giving the bullpen anchor a record-setting five -year, $102 million contract.
But that figures to be just the beginning of Eppler’s spending spree as he looks to build a pennant winner for deep-pocketed owner Steve Cohen.
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The Athletic’s Jim Bowden identified the biggest offseason needs for every club. With Diaz signed, sealed and delivered, Bowden believes the Mets must focus on starting pitching and a bat.
Owner Steve Cohen has already started playing checkbook baseball this offseason with the Díaz deal. Now, the Mets must focus on trying to bring back (Jacob) deGrom and (Chris) Bassittand they’ll need to add an outfield bat if they can’t re-sign (Brandon) Nimmo. The bullpen is another priority.
DeGrom, a two-time Cy Young Award winner, opted out of his contract and could be in line for a massive payday (think Max Scherzer’s three-year, $130 million contract). Among the teams expected to chase the Mets ace are the Atlanta Braves and Texas Rangers.
The New York Post’s Jon Heyman believes deGrom will land a three-year, $125 million contract. Bowden has deGrom pegged at two years and $90 million with an opt out after Year 1.
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Bassitt, who hit the open market after turning down his contract option, also figures to be in line for a big payday after winning a career-high 15 games in 2022.
Heyman projects Bassitt will sign a three-year, $66 million deal while Bowden has the right-hander at four years and $74 million.
As for Nimmo, he could be looking at a nine-figure contract, with the Colorado Rockies showing early interest.
Heyman’s projected contract for Nimmo is seven years and $145 million. Bowden has Nimmo getting five years and $80 million.
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Mike Rosenstein may be reached at [email protected].