Where money fails, emotions win. That could be the surprising philosophy through which the New York Mets are currently conducting themselves. The richest team in baseball has remained quiet this offseason. But now, with them becoming a part of the Shota Imanaga sweepstakes, are they hoping to steer the emotions of the ace in their favor?

The current ace of the Mets is Imanaga’s compatriot, Kodai Senga, who is currently excelling in the league and is especially enjoying his time in the Queens. Could he transfer some of those vibes to Imanaga to help the Mets’ standing in this race?

The New York Mets – An unlikely but still possible destination for Shota Imanaga

Ever since losing Yoshinobu Yamamoto, the Mets have remained quiet in the market. Multiple reports had already said that they were treating 2024 as a transition year. As a result, a heavy investment seemed unlikely. But with a growing need for a rotation, the Mets will have to add at least one more pitcher to their squad. Shota Imanaga could be the one. But as The Athletic reported, the market value of Shota needs to come down. “In theory, the Mets would have some interest, but they’d probably need his market to drop.”

The payroll troubles of the Mets are known to all. Without even making one signing, they’ve already crossed the tax threshold this year. With the team under dire financial pressure, giving a $100 million plus deal to Imanaga doesn’t seem likely. Perhaps that’s why Kodai Senga could be called upon to play a part.

While the Mets have gone downhill, Senga has thrived in the league. The ace was one of the few bright spots of the Amazin’ Mets’ not-so-amazing squad. At the same time, Senga is also enjoying his time in the Queens. In Senga, an immediate ace who is an integral part of the team’s plans, Imanaga could see his future. Could this sway Imanaga? 

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Also, having a compatriot with him could attract Imanaga. In a new environment, a little familiarity goes a long way. The Mets would need this to matter, as Imanaga is currently their only major free-agent target.

The surprising strategy of the Queens Side

The ‘high-spending Mets’ have finally given way to a ‘financially-prudent Mets’. Apart from Imanaga, they don’t seem to be a part of any free-agent market. The team is looking to fix its pitching woes through a one or two-year trade deal. With the Mets not really looking to compete for the title in 2024, temporary solutions seem to be a sensible step for them.

As a result, they’ve entered into talks with the Chicago White Sox for Dylan Cease. Apart from him, they’re also looking at other alternatives. So it looks like Imanaga’s their only free agent bet and even there they have a financial handicap to overcome.

Read more: Shota Imanaga Finalists Revealed, as Japanese Ace Race Nears Deadline