In February, most MLB pitchers will report to training camp because they need these two months before the regular season begins to loosen their arms and find their rhythm. Due to the early start, teams generally try finalize their pitching staff by this time. We’ve already seen two blue chip hurlers signed in CC Sabathia and A.J. Burnett. Now Derek Lowe is finally coming into the discussion. After finishing last season with wonderful performances in August and September, Lowe once again proved why he is one of the top pitchers in baseball. The 2008 New York Mets had a weak link in their rotation and are now looking to Lowe.
The Mets have acted on their remaining offseason priority, extending highly sought right-hander Derek Lowe a three-year offer for approximately $36 million, according to a report in the New York Times.
Citing “people who have been briefed on the discussions” between the Mets and agent Scott Boras, the Times’ report is the first word of a specific offer having been presented to Lowe, who will turn 36 in the spring.
Lowe, 14-11 with a 3.24 ERA for the Dodgers last season, entered the free-agent market with a price generally perceived as $90 million for five years. His suitors have included the Red Sox, Phillies and — at least until they reeled in both CC Sabathia and A.J. Burnett — the Yankees.
Here is the Mets’ potential rotation: Johan Santana, Mike Pelfrey, Oliver Perez, John Maine, and Derek Lowe. Sounds pretty devastating to me, considering Pedro Martinez and Billy Wagner are still on their roster. Add the closing threat of Francisco Rodriguez and the Mets suddenly seem like the best team in the NL East. If they do sign Lowe, they will have a stronger rotation than the Phillies, hands down. Also, since the Phils and Pat Burrell appear to be parting ways, I think the Mets will have them beat in hitting as well.
I won’t blame Lowe if he decides to leave the Dodgers. He never seemed really happy in Los Angeles and has routinely expressed his love for the East Coast. With Lowe off the market, Jake Peavy and Ben Sheets are still looking for new homes. The Dodgers, Angels, and Red Sox will all be interested.
