Steve Cohen is optimistic about the New York Mets' roster as they prepare for the 2024 season, emphasizing depth as a key to success. After experiencing challenges in 2023, including injuries, the organization has taken lessons to heart, revising their approach in roster construction and focusing on acquiring players who can step up when needed.

The Mets entered training camp with a strong pitching staff, including ace Kodai Senga and Sean Manaea, while also acquiring experienced players like Nick Madrigal and Joey Meneses. Cohen believes that their diverse lineup, featuring stars like Francisco Lindor and Pete Alonso, along with solid bench options, positions the team well to handle the ups and downs of a 162-game season.

As spring training approaches for the New York Mets, speculation arises about a potential reunion with former ace Noah Syndergaard. Despite the current roster appearing stable, the 32-year-old free agent has been seen training in Texas with scouts watching. Once a dominant force for the Mets, Syndergaard’s journey has been marred by injuries, leading to a challenging 2023 season across two teams. With the Mets’ rotation facing uncertainty, including concerns about the health and performance of current pitchers, signing Syndergaard on a minor league deal could provide necessary depth. A healthy Syndergaard could reclaim his previous form, bolstering the Mets’ pitching options for the upcoming season.

The MLB offseason is reaching a critical juncture as players and teams prepare for the upcoming spring training. With the report date for pitchers and catchers set for February 10, several high-profile free agents remain unsigned, including Alex Bregman. Among the intriguing stories is Roki Sasaki, a 23-year-old right-handed pitcher, who has narrowed his options to three teams: the Los Angeles Dodgers, San Diego Padres, and Toronto Blue Jays. Sasaki is expected to make his decision by January 23, following the opening of the international free agency window.

Previously, the Chicago Cubs were reportedly eliminated from contention for Sasaki's services. The talented pitcher, recognized as the most skilled player outside of an MLB organization, has drawn attention due to his impressive statistics and potential to be an immediate impactful starter. Despite injuries limiting him to just 33 starts in the last two seasons, his showing in Japan's NPB, where he recorded a 2.35 ERA and 129 strikeouts last season, underscores his capabilities.

As the market for Sasaki intensifies, other teams such as the New York Yankees, New York Mets, San Francisco Giants, and Texas Rangers have been informed they are out of the running. The Yankees' current rotation boasts notable names like Gerrit Cole and Max Fried, while the Mets are relying on pitchers led by Sean Manaea and Kodai Senga. The Giants, following the signing of Justin Verlander, have also seen their hopes dashed. The Blue Jays have recently hosted Sasaki for discussions about a potential signing, while the Padres also remain heavily involved in his pursuit.

Sean Manaea is returning to the New York Mets on a significant three-year, $75 million contract. The left-handed pitcher had a standout season, achieving a 12-6 record and a 3.47 ERA in 32 starts, solidifying his role as the team's top starter.

After declining a player option and a qualifying offer, Manaea's reunion with the Mets comes as they aim to strengthen their rotation, having already signed several key free agents this offseason.

Sean Manaea is returning to the New York Mets on a three-year, $75 million contract, pending a successful physical. The left-handed pitcher had a standout season, achieving a 12-6 record with a 3.47 ERA in 32 starts.

This deal follows Manaea's decision to decline a player option and a qualifying offer, making him a free agent for the third consecutive offseason. His return bolsters the Mets' rotation, which has seen significant investment this offseason, including the signing of several other pitchers.