In a significant move for their pitching lineup, the New York Mets have secured a three-year contract with pitcher Sean Manaea, valued at $75 million. This agreement was finalized Friday night, cementing Manaea’s position as a cornerstone of the Mets’ restructured rotation.
Sean Manaea has solidified his place as a leading pitcher for the Mets, achieving a 12-6 record with a 3.47 ERA in 32 starts during the 2024 season. His performance has been pivotal, particularly after altering his pitching technique midseason to mirror the style of NL Cy Young Award winner Chris Sale. Over his final 12 regular-season games, Manaea posted an impressive 6-2 record with a 3.09 ERA, enhancing his reliability on the mound.
The new contract follows Manaea’s decision to decline his player option for 2025, initially part of a $28 million, two-year deal, and to turn down a $21.05 million qualifying offer. His choice to explore free agency this offseason was noteworthy, given his instrumental role in the Mets’ pursuit of the National League Championship Series.
David Stearns, the Mets’ president of baseball operations, praised Manaea’s on-field leadership and commendable character, which has evidently made a profound impact within the team. ‘Sean was an integral part of what the team accomplished last season,’ Stearns stated. ‘He impressed on the field leading the rotation and in the clubhouse with his character, attitude, and composure.’
The Mets have been active in the offseason, investing a staggering $916.25 million in five free agents to bolster their roster. This includes high-profile deals such as Juan Soto’s record-breaking $765 million contract. New additions like Frankie Montas, Clay Holmes, and Griffin Canning further signal the team’s commitment to strengthening their pitching staff. Holmes, known for his success as a closer, intends to transition to a starting role.
Manaea’s presence in the Mets’ rotation is anticipated to be crucial alongside fellow pitchers Kodai Senga and David Peterson, with potential contributions from Canning, Tylor Megill, and others forthcoming. As a veteran with nine years in the major leagues, Manaea has an established record, including a no-hitter in 2018 against Boston while with Oakland.
As part of the Mets, Manaea joins a franchise with significant recent investments in talent, including his deal that matches Nathan Eovaldi’s $75 million contract with the Texas Rangers. The Mets’ strategic moves this offseason underline their ambition to compete at the highest levels in the upcoming seasons.
Sean Manaea’s re-signing represents a key strategic move for the Mets, aiming to enhance their competitiveness in the coming years. With his proven track record and leadership qualities, Manaea is set to play a crucial role in the Mets’ pursuit of success.
Source: News4jax
