Both New York clubs are searching for starting pitching this offseason, and two players they are reportedly strongly considering are Tatsuya Imai and Michael King.
The Mets and Yankees are among the most interested in the free agent righties, according to Mark Feinsand of MLB.com.
That certainly doesn’t come as a surprise, as both would present a strong addition to either clubs rotation.
Imai, who was posted by the NPB’s Seibu Lions this offseason, is coming off a spectacular campaign in which he pitched to a career-best 1.92 ERA and 0.89 WHIP in 163 innings.
His plus-arsenal includes a mid-90s fastball, a splitter, slider, and cutter.
He has until Jan. 2 to sign with a club, and according to a recent report from the Athletic, he is expected to visit with teams upon the end of next week’s Winter Meetings.
Boston, Philly, and the Cubs are also believed to be interested as well.
King was tremendous in 2024 as he transitioned from the bullpen to a full-time starter, but he battled injuries for most of last season and was limited to just 15 outings with the Padres.
He dealt with a nerve injury in his throwing shoulder, and also lost time due to a knee injury.
The NY native and former Yankee has top of the rotation potential when healthy, but concerns over his durability could result in him landing a short-term deal this offseason.
King could potentially bet on himself with an eye on hitting the market again next winter, but there are several other clubs in the mix for his talents including the Orioles, Tigers, and Marlins.
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