As I read rumors, tips, tweets, and all these other little snippets throughout the day, I realized two things. First, I need to concentrate on work more and secondly, the pitching market is getting more and more interesting by the hour. Besides John Lackey, there is obviously not a lot of star power on the free agent pitcher scene. Also, more and more teams have opened the door to trading their own pitchers. It seems like the free agent market for second tier pitchers (Randy Wolf, Jon Garland, Jason Marquis) and the trade market for this type (Bronson Arroyo, Edwin Jackson) is beginning to flood a bit. This could prove beneficial for several teams if they take advantage correctly.
First, this could eliminate teams from the Lackey sweepstakes, there by driving his price down. A bit like the lack of suitors for K-Rod last year and the Mets getting a very reasonable 3 year deal with him.If a lot of other teams are looking elsewhere, its quite possible one or two teams could end up being the choices for Lackey.
Additionally, teams like the Mets with a need on multiple fronts (slugging outfielder, effective starters, catcher) may be drawn away from Lackey because of the chance to fill the rotation spots in a more affordable manner to leave money for other acquisitions.
A team like the Yankees/Red Sox could use this to swoop in and make a strong offer and simply walk away with the best pitcher on the market. Without someone to compete with, Lackey is sure to snap up what he probably would receive as a strong contract.
Finally, this leaves the door open for a small market team to fly in and make a big offer to grab the right hander. Without a lot of competition, it just might work.
So, where should the Mets go from here? I still say Lackey would be a great piece. I also believe the Mets have got to inquire about Bronson Arroyo and Edwin Jackson as both are solid pitchers that are durable and could be very strong in the 3rd or 4th spot in the rotation.
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