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General manager Billy Eppler recognized on Wednesday that Quintana, who signed a two-year, $26 million contract with the Mets last week, brings a component the organization lacked on a full-time basis. Eppler stated that he did not necessarily want to add a lefty to the Mets rotation for next season.
Eppler stated on a Zoom call, “In the end, it’s a bit of a divider, but it’s not a requirement that we carry into the winter and say we have to walk with a left-handed starter.” “It’s wonderful to provide variety and be able to attack opponents in a variety of ways, and there may be situations where we try to time rest and usage based on an opponent, provided the schedule and off days permit.”
David Peterson, a left-handed pitcher, made 19 starts in a fill-in capacity during the 2018 season, but his status for 2023 remains unknown. The veteran Quintana posted a 2.82 ERA in 32 starts for the Pirates and Cardinals last season.
“It’s more Jose’s demeanor, his knowledge, and his savvy for doing what he does at a very high level and for an extended length of time,” Eppler explained. This is what pushed us there more than his throwing hand.
In 2006, Quintana, a native of Colombia, began his professional career with the Mets.
“It’s time to win, and the move was ideal,” Quintana remarked. “The perfect team, and we have everything here to prove it. I’m thrilled to have the chance to come here.”
Thursday at Citi Field, the Mets will conduct a news conference to announce Brandon Nimmo’s return on an eight-year, $162 million contract.
The team will also have its annual holiday party, with Todd Zeile playing Santa Claus and presenting gifts to youngsters alongside Nimmo, Daniel Vogelbach, and Buck Showalter, the manager.
»Billy Eppler of the Mets sees Jose Quintana’s lefty as an added bonus«