BREAKING: 3 Mets signings rebounded nicely after their disastrous 2023 season

Two months into the New York Mets season, things haven’t gone as hoped. The team has been mediocre at best. However, one positive aspect of the first two months is the strong performance of several free agent signings.

The Mets focused on signing players to short-term deals with only one year of guaranteed money. They selected players needing a comeback, and it has paid off.

These three Mets free agent signings have been outstanding for the team after a disappointing 2023 season.

1) Luis Severino

Last year was a tough one for Luis Severino. In 18 starts and a relief appearance, he went 4-8 with a 6.65 ERA. Coupled with his injury history, he wasn’t the most appealing free agent option for the Mets.

Surprisingly, Severino has been outstanding this season. He has twice carried no-hitters deep into games. Through 10 starts, he’s 2-2 with a 3.22 ERA.

 

Severino has adapted his pitching style. He’s no longer a big strikeout pitcher, striking out batters at a rate of 7.7 per 9 innings. His walk rate has increased from 2.8 per 9 with the Yankees to 4 per 9 with the Mets.

One significant improvement is the number of home runs he has allowed. Last year, he gave up home runs at a rate of 2.3 per 9 innings, compared to just 0.6 per 9 this season—half his career rate with the Yankees. This season, he has a groundball rate of 51.5% and a line drive rate of 15.8%. Severino isn’t relying on luck. A determined performer who doesn’t make excuses, the only downside to this free agent signing might be that it’s only for one year.