Left-hander Sean Manaea is expected to explore free agency this winter, a move that could significantly affect the New York Mets’ offseason strategy. According to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale, Manaea is likely to exercise his opt-out clause to test the market. Speaking with Nightengale, Manaea discussed his recent short-term contracts, stating that while he would consider a longer-term deal, he’s comfortable with the short-term, opt-out route. This decision isn’t surprising given his strong season and the potential for a lucrative long-term contract.
Sean Manaea Expected to Opt-Out of Deal with Mets
Manaea, 33, has signed two-year contracts with opt-out options in each of the last two offseasons and is currently enjoying one of the best seasons of his career. Over 150 1/3 innings, he boasts a 3.35 ERA, a 25% strikeout rate, and an 8.8% walk rate.
His most recent start marked his ninth quality start since July 2, including five starts of at least seven innings in his last seven outings. Since July 2, Manaea has given up 23 earned runs in 74 1/3 innings, maintaining a 2.78 ERA. During this period, he tied for first in quality starts, led in innings pitched, and tied for fifth in strikeouts with 78.
Manaea has reinvented himself for the second consecutive season. After falling out of the San Francisco Giants’ rotation, he spent last season as a multi-inning reliever and bulk pitcher behind openers.
He won’t be the only Mets pitcher hitting free agency this offseason, as right-hander Luis Severino is also likely to test the market again. Severino, 30, joined the Mets from the Yankees after a tough 2023 season. Both Manaea and Severino have made strong cases for the Mets to consider bringing them back this winter. However, the Mets could see Manaea, Severino, Pete Alonso, Jose Quintana, and J.D. Martinez all enter free agency.
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