Dellin Betances, one of the MLB’s very best relievers from 2014 to 2018, is currently without a team. However, that could be about to change, as the New York Mets are reportedly “pushing hard” for his services.
According to Dan Federico, the Mets want to finalize a one-year contract with the relief ace as soon as possible. The New York Yankees, the team that has employed him since his Minor League days, are interested, but Kristie Ackert says a reunion is “unlikely.”
The only reason why Betances is considering one-year contracts is that he missed almost all of 2019 with injuries.
Shoulder and lat issues delayed the start of his campaign, and when he was finally ready to return and help the team in its postseason race, he tore his left Achilles tendon on September, 15, in his first appearance of the season against the Toronto Blue Jays.
Betances struck out the two batters he faced in 2019. Had he stayed healthy and had a good October, he could have been looking at a wealthy multi-year commitment as one of the top relievers in the market. Now, he is looking at a one-year, “prove-it” deal to re-enter the market next offseason at age 32.
Specialists in medicine have said that Betances can be ready around Spring Training. As it turns out, the tear wasn’t complete, so he can be a hidden gem for the team that signs him. Could it be the Mets?
Betances would fit in nicely with the Mets
Betances would be a fantastic addition to the Mets‘ bullpen corps. It would be a win-win situation, as he would provide a dangerous weapon and the team could let him re-establish some value.
In a five-year span from 2014 to 2018, Betances had an absurd 14.63 K/9, a 2.22 ERA, a 2.26 FIP, 11.2 fWAR, and 607 total strikeouts. He also accrued 117 holds.
It is not a secret that Betances has the talent to close. However, if he were to come to the New York Mets, it is likely that he operates in a “fireman” role to take care of difficult situations, leaving the ninth inning to Edwin Diaz.