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The MLB offseason sprang into life after the Toronto Blue Jays signed former San Diego Padres ace Dylan Cease on a blockbuster seven-year, $210 million contract.
While the Mets potentially missed out on a crucial rotation piece, they are in the hunt for another former Padres pitcher. According to the NY Post, the Mets are pursuing two-time All-Star closer Robert Suarez.
Suarez, who registered a career-best 40 saves last season with a 2.97 ERA across 70 appearances, opted out of the final two years and $16 million remaining on his Padres contract at the start of November.
The team is also trying to re-sign last season's designated closer, Edwin Diaz, and has also talked to Pete Fairbanks' representatives as the Mets look to bolster their bullpen options.
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Amid the Mets' hunt for a bullpen piece, their NL East rivals, the Philadelphia Phillies, have ramped up their interest in Arizona Diamondbacks infielder Ketel Marte.
While Marte's flexibility in playing second base and the outfield makes him a valuable asset, the Phillies will be more inclined to use his hitting prowess to boost their batting lineup.
Over the last two seasons, Marte has slashed .288/.374/.549 with 64 home runs in 1139 plate appearances. However, the Phillies are facing competition from the Blue Jays, who have also inquired about the Diamondbacks' second baseman, per MLB Network's Jon Morosi.
Phillies and Kyle Schwarber not close to a deal despite strong interest
The Phillies' interest in Ketel Marte comes amid their pursuit of Kyle Schwarber. The veteran DH had a career year with the Phillies last season after smashing 56 home runs that earned him second place in the NL MVP voting.
While the Phillies are expected to be the favorites to re-sign Schwarber this offseason, MLB.com's Todd Zolecki reported that the two parties are not close on a deal yet.
"The club and Schwarber are not close to a deal, according to sources," Zolecki wrote. "It isn’t a surprise at this time of year. Schwarber’s agents want to capitalize on his monstrous 2025 season in which he finished second for NL MVP behind Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani.
"There’s no reason to rush it, but the lack of progress can be frustrating, while others wonder how long the Phils can wait."
Although the Phillies are the favorites, Schwaber is also attracting strong interests from the Boston Red Sox and the New York Mets in free agency.
