The New York Mets missed out on a significant opportunity to acquire pitcher Erick Fedde during the 2023 offseason, ultimately losing him to the White Sox. Fedde, who had struggled in his last seasons with the Nationals, revitalized his performance in the KBO, boasting a 2.30 ERA. His successful season with the White Sox featured a 126 ERA+ and 3.4 fWAR, showcasing his potential impact as a mid-rotation starter. Had the Mets secured Fedde instead of Adrian Houser, they could have seen substantial gains in their win total, possibly securing a Wild Card spot. This hypothetical acquisition underlines the strategic misstep in the Mets' offseason approach.

By the Numbers
  • Fedde's 2024 stats: 177.1 IP, 154 K, 3.30 ERA, 3.4 fWAR
  • Houser's 2024 stats: 69.1 IP, 45 K, 5.84 ERA, -0.1 fWAR
State of Play
  • The Mets currently have a glaring gap in starting pitching depth.
  • Fedde’s performance with the White Sox highlighted his potential that went unrecognized by the Mets.
What's Next

Moving forward, the Mets will need to reassess their strategies in free agency and trades to bolster their pitching staff. Exploring opportunities similar to Fedde's could be crucial in making significant roster improvements.

Bottom Line

The Mets' decision not to pursue Erick Fedde represents a missed chance to elevate their pitching staff and secure a crucial playoff berth. As they prepare for future seasons, focusing on undervalued talents could prove vital for competitive success.