The New York Mets aren’t just dipping their toes into the offseason waters - they’re diving in headfirst. After already making waves by landing Bo Bichette, Freddy Peralta, and Luis Robert Jr., the Mets have reshaped their roster in a matter of days. But if you think they’re done, think again.
According to reports, New York may not be finished adding arms to the rotation. The latest name drawing serious attention? A familiar face: veteran left-hander José Quintana.
Quintana, who pitched for the Mets in 2023 and 2024, is reportedly on the team’s radar once again. The 36-year-old free agent is coming off a solid season with the Milwaukee Brewers, where he posted a 3.96 ERA. That’s not ace-level dominance, but it’s the kind of steady production teams value from the middle or back end of a rotation - especially one looking to compete now.
And that’s exactly where the Mets find themselves. This is a team clearly operating with urgency, and Quintana could be the kind of stabilizing presence that helps round out a rotation already featuring Freddy Peralta, Sean Manaea, David Peterson, and young arms like Nolan McLean.
Kodai Senga remains a key piece, though his role may shift depending on his health and the team’s evolving needs. Clay Holmes is also in the mix, though his future could be impacted by any new additions.
Depth options like Tobias Myers and Jonah Tong give the Mets flexibility, but adding a veteran like Quintana would give them something else: reliability.
Quintana isn’t the only lefty starter on the market, and he’s drawing interest from several clubs, including the Padres, Tigers, Rockies, and Rangers. That said, Texas may be backing off after acquiring MacKenzie Gore, potentially clearing a path for the Mets.
Now, let’s be clear - Quintana isn’t a splashy signing. He’s not going to headline the rotation or dominate headlines.
But what he brings is valuable: consistency, experience, and a left-handed arm that can eat innings and keep the bullpen fresh. He’s the kind of pitcher who can quietly win you games in July and August, when rotations are stretched and every start matters.
There’s also the strategic angle. If the Mets were to sign Quintana, it could open the door for a trade involving someone like Peterson, Manaea, or even Holmes. That kind of flexibility is important for a front office that’s clearly looking to fine-tune this roster into a legitimate contender.
Bottom line: the Mets are showing they’re serious about contending. And while José Quintana may not be the flashiest name out there, bringing him back could be a savvy move that helps solidify a rotation already trending in the right direction. If David Stearns and Steve Cohen have shown us anything this winter, it’s that they’re not afraid to make the next move - and they’re not done yet.