The New York Mets’ search for pitching reinforcements continues to face setbacks, with the latest blow being the news that Japanese sensation Roki Sasaki is unlikely to join the team. Despite possessing the financial firepower to make a competitive bid, the Mets appear to have fallen out of serious contention for the 23-year-old phenom, leaving the rotation in a precarious position as the offseason progresses.

Sasaki, renowned for his 102 mph fastball and pinpoint control, has drawn interest from numerous MLB teams as he eyes a potential move from Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB). The Mets, who successfully integrated Kodai Senga from NPB last season, seemed like a natural fit for Sasaki. However, industry insiders now believe Sasaki is more likely to join teams like the Dodgers or Mariners, both of which have strong histories of developing Japanese talent and deep playoff aspirations.

The NL East Arms race: New York Mets falling behind?

SNY posted a video of Andy Martino on the Mets Hot Stove giving insights about Mets lineup interests and pursuits. He said, “Luis Castillo in Seattle is available in trade conversations. The Mets have not been involved there on Castillo, and frankly, I’m not hearing a lot of optimism in the industry that the Mets would be the team for Roki Sasaki. So it seems as if what we see now in the rotation depth chart is going to be pretty much what they’re rolling into the season with.”

Adding to the frustration, the New York Mets have remained uninvolved in trade discussions for Luis Castillo, the Mariners’ ace who became available this offseason. Castillo, a proven performer with ace-level ability, could have provided an immediate boost to the rotation. However, sources indicate the Mets have not engaged Seattle in meaningful trade talks, signaling a reluctance to make a bold move for starting pitching.

Instead, the Mets seem to be concentrating on strengthening their bullpen areas right now. Tanner Scott has caught the attention of the team as one of the top relievers for recruitment, according to reports. Stearns is reportedly looking to sign Scott on a short-term deal with a high average value to take advantage of the Mets’ financial strength. While bringing Scott on board would boost the bullpen’s capabilities, it doesn’t really solve the glaring needs they have for starting pitching.

By passing on opportunities to acquire Sasaki or Castillo, the Mets are banking on their current rotation to hold steady. As opening day approaches, the Mets’ pitching strategy remains under the microscope, with questions lingering about whether their offseason priorities align with their World Series aspirations.

The Rotation as It Stands: Enough to Compete?

The New York Mets’ rotation for 2025 is anchored by Kodai Senga, who established himself as a real ace in his first MLB season with a 3.17 ERA and 202 strikeouts. However, beyond Senga, the group faces significant question marks. José Quintana returns as a reliable veteran presence, but his age and limited upside leave him more suited for a middle-rotation role. Tylor Megill and David Peterson remain inconsistent, with neither showing the ability to shoulder a significant workload over a full season. Joey Lucchesi adds depth but doesn’t project as a game-changer. This rotation, while serviceable, lacks the firepower needed to contend with the pitching-rich teams in their division.

The Braves feature a group of pitchers led by Spencer Strider, while the Phillies showcase top-notch talents in Zack Wheeler and Aaron Nola on their pitching staff. However, the Mets seem to falter due to their failed interest in acquiring a starting pitcher like Luis Castillo or Roki Sasaki through trade or signings. This puts them at a disadvantage in a division where pitching plays a role in determining success. Unless the New York Mets’ current pitchers step up unexpectedly or pull off some midseason deals, their pitching rotation doesn’t look fully prepared for a deep playoff run.

The Mets’ choice not to make improvements to their pitching staff raises doubts about their competitiveness in the NL East. With rivals boasting elite pitching depth, relying on internal options could prove costly. Without impactful midseason moves, the Mets may struggle to meet their championship ambitions.