After a historic collapse to end the 2025 season, the New York Mets are turning their attention to roster improvement ahead of a potential lockout on Dec. 1. The team is reportedly interested in two-time Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal, but his projected price tag — a long-term deal worth $325-400 million or a three-year, $150 million pact with two opt-outs — may be too steep for a non-everyday player. With that in mind, here are eight alternative pitching options the Mets could pursue this offseason.
Joe Ryan, Minnesota Twins
The Twins declined their mutual option on Ryan, a two-time All-Star who posted a 4.60 ERA in 2026 but is 30 and in his prime. Pairing him with Nolan McLean could give the Mets a competitive rotation for 2027.
Michael King, San Diego Padres
King has been a borderline All-Star over the last six seasons and has experience in the New York spotlight from his time with the Yankees. He also excelled in playoff baseball this fall.
Sandy Alcantara, Miami Marlins
The 2022 Cy Young winner is entering the final year of his contract at $21 million. After returning from Tommy John surgery, he went 13-? with a 3.87 ERA in 2026. The Marlins have resisted trading him, but he could be a valuable one-year addition.
Sonny Gray, Boston Red Sox
At 36, Gray had the best season of his career in 2026, going 18-5 with a 2.72 ERA. A short-term, high-average deal could upgrade the Mets' rotation despite his age.
Casey Mize, Free Agent
Mize was an All-Star in 2025 (14-6, 3.87 ERA) and posted a 2.70 ERA in his first 16 starts of 2026 before struggling after a trade to the Padres. At 29, he offers upside at a more reasonable price.
Hiromi Itoh, Nippon-Ham Fighters
The 29-year-old Japanese right-hander won the Sawamura Award (NPB's Cy Young equivalent) in 2026 with a 3.44 ERA over 172.2 innings. He features a seven-pitch arsenal and a fastball up to 96 mph.
Carlos Rodon, New York Yankees
If the Yankees sign Skubal, they may trade from their pitching depth. Rodon, a three-time All-Star, went 7-3 with a 2.67 ERA in 16 starts in 2026 and has two years, $55 million left on his contract — a structure Mets president David Stearns prefers.
Clay Holmes, Free Agent
The Mets could reunite with Holmes after trading him to the Cubs at the deadline. He has proven he can handle New York pressure, and Stearns may offer a multi-year deal despite Holmes turning 34 next season.
