Prior to the re-signing of relief pitcher Adam Ottavino and the splash signing of big bat Carlos Correa, there was some reported buzz early yesterday that the New York Mets were one of the teams in on closer Liam Hendriks.
Multiple insiders yesterday, from Andy Martino of SNY to Michael Mayer of Metsmerized, and Jon Heyman of The New York Post and MLB Network, all reported the Mets’ interest in Hendriks.
Hendriks is a 33-year-old right-hander for the Chicago White Sox with 12 years of MLB experience. Over 471 career games, Hendriks has an ERA of 3.81. Over each of the last four seasons, Hendriks has posted an ERA of 2.81 or better. In 2019, he posted a 1.80, which was followed up with a 1.78 in 2020.
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With the Mets’ recent moves could Liam Hendriks still be an option?
Even with the finances, the addition of Correa, with Steve Cohen in charge, likely does not impact the team’s pursuit of Hendriks. However, the move to re-sign Ottavino, which was smart, could potentially make it less likely that the Mets land Hendriks.
Recent reports after the Correa signing have, however, suggested that the Mets are still not done making moves. Per Mayer, adding another bat and reliever is still in play for Cohen and Billy Eppler.
Therefore, with the aggressiveness, Cohen has shown and ability to execute, getting whatever he wants, although it is less likely with Ottavino re-signed, the idea of the Mets acquiring Hendriks certainly cannot be ruled out. He would only improve this revamped bullpen that much more.
In the end, though, it is probably unrealistic to fully anticipate the Mets making a move for Hendriks at this time which is fine. The Mets top four relief pitchers at the moment are an exciting bunch, Edwin Diaz, David Robertson, Brooks Raley, and Ottavino. Adding Hendriks would only fortify things that much more.