The New York Mets have made a significant offseason move by signing Canadian right-handed pitcher Michael Soroka to a one-year, $9 million deal. This acquisition signals the Mets’ continued effort to bolster their pitching rotation heading into the 2024 season. Soroka, 26, brings both potential and intrigue as he seeks to reestablish himself as one of Major League Baseball’s top pitchers after a series of setbacks in recent years.
Soroka, a Calgary native, was once considered one of the most promising young arms in baseball. He debuted with the Atlanta Braves in 2018 and quickly made an impact. His breakout season came in 2019 when he posted an impressive 2.68 ERA over 29 starts, earning him an All-Star selection and finishing second in NL Rookie of the Year voting. Soroka also played a key role in the Braves’ playoff run that year, showcasing his composure on the mound.
However, Soroka’s career trajectory took a hit due to injuries. In 2020, he suffered a torn Achilles tendon, which sidelined him for the remainder of the season. Complications and a subsequent re-tear of the tendon extended his recovery, keeping him off the field for nearly two full seasons. Soroka made a long-awaited return to the Braves in 2023 but faced challenges in regaining his pre-injury form, finishing the year with a 6.40 ERA over seven starts and three relief appearances.
The Mets’ decision to sign Soroka reflects both a calculated risk and a high-reward potential. At his best, Soroka possesses excellent command, a devastating sinker, and the ability to induce weak contact. He could be a valuable mid-rotation or back-end starter, complementing the Mets’ other arms. Moreover, Soroka’s deal is relatively low-risk given its one-year term, allowing the Mets to assess his health and performance without a long-term commitment.
For Soroka, joining the Mets represents a fresh start and an opportunity to prove he can still be a dominant force on the mound. The team’s robust medical and training staff may also aid in his continued recovery and help him return to peak form.
As the Mets look to contend in a competitive NL East, Soroka’s resurgence could be a pivotal storyline. If he can recapture even a fraction of his 2019 success, this signing could prove to be a steal for New York.
