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Rangers Sign Jacob deGrom To Five-Year Contract

By Anthony Franco | December 3, 2022 at 7:24pm CDT

The Rangers have made their huge rotation splash, announcing agreement with Jacob deGrom on a five-year contract. It’s a reported $185MM guarantee, and the deal also includes a full no-trade clause. The VC Sports Group client will make $30MM next season, followed by successive $40MM salaries in 2024-25, $38MM in 2026 and $37MM in 2027.

The contract also contains a conditional option for the 2028 campaign, with salaries dependent on the health of deGrom’s arm over the first four seasons. If the hurler undergoes Tommy John surgery or suffers any elbow or shoulder injury that leads to a 130-day injured list stint within a season or a full calendar year absence over multiple campaigns, a club option would kick in. That’d be valued at $20MM, but it’d jump to $30MM if deGrom posts a top-five Cy Young finish at any point during the deal or tallied a cumulative 625 innings over the next five seasons. It’d go to $37MM if he pitches 725-plus frames or secures three top-five Cy Young finishes.

If deGrom doesn’t suffer the kind of injury that’d trigger the conditional provision, he could vest the 2028 option at $37MM by pitching 160+ innings in ’27 and securing a top-five Cy Young finish. In that case, he’d only need to pass a postseason physical to max out the contract at $222MM over six seasons.

“We are thrilled that Jacob deGrom has decided to become a Texas Ranger,” general manager Chris Young said in the press release. “Over a number of seasons, Jacob has been a standout Major League pitcher, and he gives us a dominant performer at the top of our rotation. One of our primary goals this off-season is to strengthen our starting pitching, and we are adding one of the best.”

It’s the biggest move of the offseason to date and the latest massive free agent strike out of Arlington. The Rangers committed more than a half-billion dollars to the trio of Corey Seager, Marcus Semien and Jon Gray last winter. That was designed to lay the foundation for a full-fledged return to contention in 2023. The Rangers didn’t see their desired steps forward from a win-loss perspective in 2022, largely because of a lackluster rotation behind Gray and Martín Pérez. Texas has suggested they were prepared to attack the top of the market to fortify the biggest weak point on the roster. They’ve done so with a shocking five-year deal for arguably the sport’s best pitcher.

deGrom is one of the most accomplished arms of his generation. While he fell to the ninth round of the 2010 draft and didn’t reach the majors until just shy of his 26th birthday in 2014, he immediately cemented himself as one of the game’s top pitchers. deGrom worked to a 2.69 ERA in his first 22 starts to secure the NL Rookie of the Year award and kick off a career as one of the league’s top hurlers.

The righty posted an ERA between 2.54 and 3.53 in each of the next three seasons, twice receiving down-ballot Cy Young support. Already a borderline ace, he took his game to new heights in 2018. deGrom twirled 217 innings with an MLB-best 1.70 ERA to secure his first Cy Young. The Mets inked him to a $120.5MM extension after that season. He followed up by repeating as the Senior Circuit’s best pitcher, claiming a second Cy Young with a 2.43 mark over 204 innings. He had another dominant season in the abbreviated 2020 campaign, and got off to one of the greatest first halves in history in ’21.

Through his first 15 starts that year, the four-time All-Star posted a microscopic 1.08 ERA while striking out an incredible 45.1% of opposing hitters. He was nagged by some minor health issues throughout the first few months, and that culminated in an injured list stint for forearm tightness right around the All-Star Break. While that wasn’t initially expected to lead to an extended absence, deGrom would wind up missing the remainder of the season. That September, New York president Sandy Alderson said deGrom had been dealing with a low-grade tear in his UCL, an eyebrow-raising assertion considering the right-hander had undergone Tommy John surgery before making his MLB debut. The pitcher refuted that, calling his ligament “perfectly fine.”

After a full offseason, deGrom was expected to return in 2022. Late in Spring Training, he felt some soreness during a between-starts throwing program. He was diagnosed with a stress reaction in his scapula and shut back down, and the injury wound up costing him the first four months of this past season. By the time he returned to the mound in early August, more than a full calendar year had gone by.

With that kind of layoff, one might’ve expected deGrom to show some signs of rust. Instead, he returned as his peak self, immediately dominating opponents yet again. The Stetson product averaged an absurd 98.9 MPH on his fastball and 92.6 MPH on the cutter/slider that serves as his go-to secondary offering. He struck out 42.7% of opponents against a minuscule 3.3% walk percentage. Opposing hitters swung and missed at 21.1% of his total pitches; no other starting pitcher with 50+ innings had a swinging strike rate above 17%. He struck out eight over six innings during his lone playoff start against San Diego.

A three-homer outing in Atlanta to end his season kicked deGrom’s ERA up to 3.08 in his abbreviated season, but there’s little doubt he’s still capable of performing at his top level if healthy. No pitcher on the planet is as dominant as deGrom on a per-start basis. He predictably opted out of the final $32.5MM on his deal with the Mets at the end of the season.

High-upside as this signing can be for the Rangers, there’s certainly plenty of risk in this kind of commitment to a pitcher who lost significant chunks of the past two seasons with arm issues. He’s worked just 162 1/3 innings (including playoffs) since the start of 2021. While deGrom had no control of the prorated season in 2020, he’ll still be expected to shoulder a full rotation workload despite having tossed just 224 1/3 cumulative innings over the last three years.

deGrom turns 35 years old in June. There’s no indication he’s on the verge of any performance regression. Texas’ commitment runs through his age-39 campaign, and there’s the potential for the deal to go sideways if his form tails off later into his 30’s. Now-former teammate Max Scherzer and fellow top free agent Justin Verlander have shown it’s not of the question for a pitcher to remain at peak form as he approaches 40. Neither Scherzer nor Verlander had dealt with the kind of injuries in their mid-30’s that have plagued deGrom, though.

The $185MM guarantee significantly tops MLBTR’s three-year, $135MM prediction at the start of the offseason. It’s the sixth-largest deal for a free agent pitcher in MLB history, trailing those of Gerrit Cole ($324MM), Stephen Strasburg ($245MM), David Price ($217MM), Scherzer ($210MM with the Nationals) and Zack Greinke ($206.5MM). The deal contains a $37MM average annual value that ranks second among any deal in big league history. Only Scherzer’s three-year pact with the Mets — which came out to $43.333MM per season — is higher.

Next year’s $30MM salary will bring Texas’ projected 2023 payroll commitments to around $170MM. That’d be a franchise-record tally for the Rangers, but there’s no indication the organization is planning to curtail spending any time soon. Owner Ray Davis and Young have each indicated there’s room for the club to be active on the open market, and there’s still plenty of work to be done in turning their 68-win roster into a contender in a difficult AL West. Young and skipper Bruce Bochy are each headed into their first full season at the helm, and they’ll expect to break a six-year playoff drought.

deGrom goes to the top of a rotation that brings back Gray and Pérez, who accepted a qualifying offer. The Rangers acquired Jake Odorizzi from the Braves at the start of the offseason, and Dane Dunning is a decent back-of-the-rotation arm. That’s a viable starting five, but the team’s rotation depth is still lacking and they could add another arm from outside the organization. The infield and catcher are in strong shape. Adolis García is the only outfielder who’s guaranteed everyday reps, leaving two spots that could be addressed, and the team figures to add at least one reliever.

The contract contains a $37MM luxury tax hit. The average annual values of a team’s commitments are relevant for competitive balance tax purposes. Signing deGrom brings Texas around $192MM in estimated CBT figures, per Roster Resource, leaving them around $40MM shy of the lowest $233MM threshold.

The Mets will have to rapidly turn the page, bidding farewell to one of the best pitchers in franchise history. New York has also seen Chris Bassitt, Taijuan Walker and Trevor Williams hit free agency. They’re sure to add to a starting staff led by Scherzer and Carlos Carrasco. Free agency offers a pair of remaining aces in Verlander and Carlos Rodón, and the big-spending Mets have previously been tied to both pitchers. Losing deGrom only figures to increase their urgency to bring in one of those two hurlers, and they’ll need to retain or replace free agent center fielder Brandon Nimmo.

New York receives modest compensation for deGrom’s departure. The team made him a qualifying offer at the start of the offseason, which he rejected. As a team that paid the luxury tax in 2022, New York receives the lowest compensation: a pick after the fourth round of next year’s amateur draft. The Rangers neither paid the luxury tax nor received revenue sharing this year. They’ll therefore surrender their second-highest pick in next year’s draft and forfeit $500K in international signing bonus space. Should they sign another qualified free agent this offseason — both Seager and Semien had turned down a QO last winter — they’d be stripped of their third-highest selection.

Jeff Passan of ESPN was first to report deGrom received a $185MM guarantee, and that the deal contained a conditional sixth-year option that could push its value to $222MM. Levi Weaver of the Athletic reported the yearly salary terms. Ronald Blum of the Associated Press reported the details of the 2028 option.

Image courtesy of USA Today Sports.

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View Comments (693)

Comments

  1. Balk

    2 months ago

    And it begins!!

    Reply
    • Balk

      2 months ago

      Hope he holds up for Texas.

      Reply
      • Pete'sView

        2 months ago

        And I actually had him going there in the FA Contest. Oh boy, oh boy.

        Reply
        • Four4fore

          2 months ago

          Yes finally got one right.

        • PinstripedPride

          2 months ago

          Me too! I just didn’t think it would be for so much money, and I was recently starting to doubt my choice. Oh boy glad I stuck with it

        • Logjammer D"Baggagecling

          2 months ago

          No idea where I had him. Yankees I think.

        • jt33nym

          2 months ago

          I also had him going to Texas

        • Flanster

          2 months ago

          Me too.

        • Yankee Clipper

          2 months ago

          I had him go to the Yanks, but I switched mine like two days ago.

          Thanks,Tim, for letting me switch some picks around after the contest closed! You’re the best!

        • Pete'sView

          2 months ago

          Yankee clipper — I was here when you started The Viral!

        • Balk

          2 months ago

          Pete..I too had him going to Texas, I had to double check, for some reason I thought I put him to the Braves ha

        • Edp007

          2 months ago

          No one wants to go to the yanks lol

        • Pete'sView

          2 months ago

          It’s good to know you have one in the pocket.

        • Ignorant Son-of-a-b

          2 months ago

          Yankee Clipper, man I had faith in you brother; What do they say about changing horses in midstream? OH! Ye of little faith!

        • DeGrom Texas Ranger

          2 months ago

          So did I!

        • vtadave

          2 months ago

          No one cares

        • Dorothy_Mantooth

          2 months ago

          Holy cow! Who thought deGrom would get a 5 year pact!!! Texas is going all in to put together a winner in Arlington. While this might not be the smartest deal, hats off to Texas for going for it. More teams should follow suit.

        • stymeedone

          2 months ago

          We will get back to you in 4 years to see how well “going for it” worked out. Texas will be a very expensive team in 5 years. That’s the only guaranteed outcome.

        • Samuel

          2 months ago

          Dorothy_Mantooth;

          It’s only a matter of time before the Rangers situation blows up in their face.

          Teams thinking about doing that need to wait and watch. There will be a large price to pay for years.

        • A'sfaninLondonUK

          2 months ago

          @ Samuel

          Got to agree – the salaries and lengths given to Semien & Seager were generous – and this for De Grom seems lunacy.

          Anyone taking the over 75 for starts in the five years of the contract?

          Peter in London

        • flamingbagofpoop

          2 months ago

          More teams should throw stupid money at players to finish in 3rd place? I’ll pass. This also means that Texas is going to have 100+m in dead money on their books when this inevitably doesn’t work out and they need to blow it up.

        • luckyh

          2 months ago

          Probably should have kept that nugget quiet.

        • rsoxfan4ever57

          2 months ago

          Yeppers

        • TheDogDays

          2 months ago

          Some serious glass half-full people here.

          It’s a risk but that’s business… and life.

          At the very least , the Rangers are showing they are a legitimate franchise. It’s been awhile.

          Good for them. I’ll go see them when they’re in town.

        • Pete'sView

          2 months ago

          I dunno. Seems like the Rangers have now set another obscene standard for salaries. I guess it shows that the owners are making obscene profits. No surprise, but this kind of spending really hurts a majority of MLB teams.

        • Kruk it

          2 months ago

          No trade clause?, He’ll be asking for a trade in two years!!

        • C Yards Jeff

          2 months ago

          John Daniels. From Arlington to Tampa Bay. Dude’s gotta feel like he’s died and gone to heaven. LOL.

        • iverbure

          2 months ago

          More teams should follow suit and spend a bunch and still likely miss the playoffs? Why would any smart fan think that’s a good thing? Not smart that’s why.

        • TheDogDays

          2 months ago

          Well, they aren’t going into this thinking they’ll miss the playoffs for starters.

          And second, moves like this go beyond wins and losses.

        • JackStrawb

          2 months ago

          @A’sfaninLondonUK Only disagree on Semien. By rWAR he was the most valuable player in baseball 2019-2021 and iirc 2018-2021 as well. He is as durable a player as there is in the game—and did it again in 2022, playing 161 games—coming off a season where he was a GG 2Bman despite being new to the position, who also hit 45 HR there while learning the other side of the keystone.

          He was signed for his age 31 season, on, as Judge will be, and as an aside I would much rather have his deal of 7/175m, than Judge’s. Cheers,

        • BStrowman

          2 months ago

          You need to draft and develop your own guys before making big splashy expensive moves should be made.

          You can’t do one before the other and expect success.

      • OIC2021

        2 months ago

        Guardians were a close runner-up for DeGrom’s services.

        Reply
        • Calogero

          2 months ago

          Woezers

        • enjoylindor

          2 months ago

          Pain.

        • kidbryant

          2 months ago

          Doubtful

        • EasternLeagueVeteran

          2 months ago

          The writing was on the wall for him after Tampa Bay signed Zach Eflin. deGrom’s market really dried up.

        • Hippyripper

          2 months ago

          Woncer what the folks at baseball today will think about this?

        • TrumboJumbo

          2 months ago

          How close?

      • mydadleftme

        2 months ago

        Now between him and Gray Texas can get a full 32 starts combined.

        Reply
        • roob

          2 months ago

          You exaggerate. It won’t be that many.

        • Bart Harley Jarvis

          2 months ago

          Nailed it! Based on deGrom’s track record, it’s about $1.9m per start. With all due respect to Yackov Smirnoff, what a country!

        • Winslow Leach

          2 months ago

          In America you throw ball. In Russia ball thross you.

        • flamingbagofpoop

          2 months ago

          I think he meant over the life of their contracts.

      • All Rise99

        2 months ago

        TEXAS HOLDUP!!!

        Reply
      • OIC2021

        2 months ago

        Imagine what Shane Bieber gets in trade right now.
        Do it Guardians.

        Reply
        • OIC2021

          2 months ago

          Texas had Six Flags amusement park and that’s why they got Degrom

        • VonPurpleHayes

          2 months ago

          There’s one in New Jersey.

        • Robrock30

          2 months ago

          VonPurpleHayes,

          I have been to the Six Flags in Both Arlington and Jackson NJ and you are so right.

          Probably Phillies breathing a bit easier now that Degrom has left the NL East.

      • vinc3nt3

        2 months ago

        I would have fold ‘em rather than hold ‘em with deGrom lol

        Reply
      • Balk

        2 months ago

        As a Giants fan, seeing a contract like this makes me wonder if some more of the same may come from the Giants offering crazy dollars to Judge that not even the Yankees will touch. 9th year, 40 million range for 360 million? Yikes.

        Reply
        • Robert Steinberg

          2 months ago

          Let’s hope they do. I want them to have that terrible contract for as long as possible.

        • Pete'sView

          2 months ago

          Balk — Also a Giants fan, and I’m hoping they don’t do that; it would cripple the team long term. That money needs to be spread around: Rodon, Correa and Nimmo.

        • utah cornelius

          2 months ago

          You won’t get Rodon, Correa, and Nimmo for $40M/yr.

        • Pete'sView

          2 months ago

          No, of course not. That’s not what I meant. I just think the Giants could use their considerable pockets to land those three, thus really improving the team.

          The cost? I’d say Corrrea ($31M/annually), Rodon ($28M/annually) and Nimmo ($21M/annually) = $80M/annually. A lot for three of 26 players, but well worth it. Maybe Haniger ($13M) and Senga ($15M) instead of Nimmo and Rodon = $59M total with Correa. Giants can afford that.

        • Balk

          2 months ago

          Pete…I agree! They need youthful contracts.

      • DoughBoyFresh

        2 months ago

        Yay

        Reply
    • Fifty

      2 months ago

      Feels like a Strasburg coming on.

      Reply
      • BudgetBall

        2 months ago

        Texas spent half a billion on two guys last season to reach 68 wins. Another $185m should see them to .500. Angel’s have the two best players in the world and won 73. If they get a little pitching they could see .500 as well. They’ll be battling for 3rd place again.

        Reply
        • BudgetBall

          2 months ago

          Feels like they’d have been better off signing 2 or 3 really good younger, less risky pitchers for the same money. This deal is so boom or bust.

        • avenger65

          2 months ago

          At least the Rangers are doing all they can to win now. It would be nice to get out from Houston’s shadow.

        • DeGrom Texas Ranger

          2 months ago

          Look at pythagorean win loss record. of 77 wins: https://www.baseball-reference.com/teams/TEX/2022.shtml. Add 8 from DeGrom and Odorizzi plus Jung at third and maybe an outfielder/top starter via trade and they are close to 90. Bochy is a much better manager who can even outperform pythag.

        • rondon

          2 months ago

          Sure. 2 or 3 younger guys who can’t touch deGrom’s boot heels. I applaud their guts in going after the guy. IAs a Cub fan, I wish Ricketts had the hair on his sack to make a move like this.

        • TrumboJumbo

          2 months ago

          Halos going all the way this year!

        • flamingbagofpoop

          2 months ago

          They will not. It’s not like TX had one opening in the rotation, they’d be better off filling that out so they have competent ML pitchers going each day, rather than deGrom (hopefully) going every 5 + 1.5 other decent pitchers, then whatever else they cobble together.

        • flamingbagofpoop

          2 months ago

          If deGrom consistently took the mound, you might have a point, but he doesn’t so you don’t. The best pitcher in the world doesn’t help his team from the DL.

        • ButchAdams

          2 months ago

          What 2-3 really good, younger, less risky players are available in the $10-17m range(that’ll combine for what degrom does)? There aren’t many, if any

        • Endersgame

          2 months ago

          flamingbagofpoop;

          You are absolutely right. As the saying goes, the best ability a player can have is availability.

        • flamingbagofpoop

          2 months ago

          Taillon, Walker & Bassitt

        • BudgetBall

          2 months ago

          Add Manaea and Wacha in here and pick 2 or 3.

      • dugmet

        2 months ago

        I think Jake will show up every year for two years and then fall off a good bit.

        Reply
      • casorgreener

        2 months ago

        Yeah this is a terrible contract!

        Reply
        • OIC2021

          2 months ago

          Corey Kluber II

      • dirkg

        2 months ago

        And let me check. Um yep. Yeah he still turns 35 this coming season. Giving an already oft injured mid-30s pitcher a 5 year contract makes my dogs ass itch.

        Reply
    • MannyBeingMVP

      2 months ago

      This probably moves Texas into third past Anaheim in pre-season division projections. But the reality is that this is likely to either be a big improvement or a complete bust. If deGrom can stay healthy enough to pitch 25 starts a year, Texas has a real gem. Watching deGrom pitch is a joy. But only a big spender could take this risk.

      My prediction was that he returned to Mets. Missed that one.

      Reply
      • rememberthecoop

        2 months ago

        Me too MBM – I also had him re-signing with the Mets. I figured they wouldn’t get outbid. Maybe they didn’t want to go 5 years? If so, can’t really blame them. And to think he was a shortstop in college!

        Reply
    • MJ

      2 months ago

      Seriously can’t imagine giving him 5 years….. or 37 mil for a someone who will maybe pitch 120 innings in a good year

      Reply
      • Rishi

        2 months ago

        It’s been 2 straight years of injury. Perhaps related somehow. It’s full of all kinds of risk but also all kinds of ACE. I understand the deal well. It will likely either be a really good deal or really bad one. But Degrom is as elite as they come and Texas has always needed a really good pitcher to put up top in rotation.

        Reply
        • Rishi

          2 months ago

          Should say it will likely be solid deal or a deal they wish they didn’t make. There is not really a great deal when you are paying this much.

    • Francys01

      2 months ago

      Wow, I didn’t think degrom was going to leave the Mets. I’m glad for the Rangers they will be getting a terrific pitcher. Hopefully, he can stay healthy and play well for the Rangers. It looks like a good signing by the Rangers. Great job.

      Reply
      • Edp007

        2 months ago

        A star hits free agency , almost never re signs . Like twice in history maybe.

        Reply
        • VonPurpleHayes

          2 months ago

          Off the top of my head: Realmuto. Jeter.

        • tstats

          2 months ago

          Jansen and DJLM and Jose Abreu (I think) if you consider them stars

        • tstats

          2 months ago

          I feel like if Verlander falls in stamina year theee he would make a heckuva closer

        • BeforeMcCourt

          2 months ago

          Lol, the 40M closer..?

        • A'sfaninLondonUK

          2 months ago

          Err how many times have/did Wainwright & Molina reach FA? Virtually everyone at SF (with the exception of Bumgarner) resigned. King Felix, Ichiro at Seattle…. Appreciate (@stats) what you consider as stars….

          PiL

        • AgentF

          2 months ago

          Kershaw… will make it twice in two years/history

        • tstats

          2 months ago

          This was meant in reply to smt else, the app has been glitchy for comments as of late

    • fre5hwind

      2 months ago

      Yes a new era.

      Reply
      • TrumboJumbo

        2 months ago

        Start for 2 more years and close for 5. 300 wins and 250 saves. Sounds good.

        Reply
    • Trafficked

      2 months ago

      If he gets 100 starts in 5 years it’ll be worth it….. but I’ll take the under

      Reply
      • knolln

        2 months ago

        That’s exactly the amount of starts I was thinking makes this about worthwhile. We’ll see I guess.

        Reply
      • cbraves

        2 months ago

        I’d say he’ll be right there around that 100 start mark.

        Reply
    • Robrock30

      2 months ago

      DeGone!

      Reply
    • ChiSox cubPunkers

      2 months ago

      He’s no dummy. NY taxes versus TX taxes

      Reply
      • niched

        2 months ago

        The Rangers are the dummies giving him that contract. Mets and Yankees aren’t that dumb.

        Reply
        • slidepiece

          2 months ago

          Dallas over NY for countless more reasons than taxes.

          This is definitely a boom or bust contract, but regardless the man escaped from NY

        • slidepiece

          2 months ago

          Just out of curiosity, how many players from both franchises remain full time in NYC to raise a family, etc after their careers end?
          I’m guessing not a high percentage.

          Safer in Fallujah

        • Holden Bases

          2 months ago

          That is ridiculous. Texas has the third most mass shootings of any state in the USA in 2022 (129 and counting). NYC is not less safe, by any means.

        • bloomquist4hof

          2 months ago

          Mass shootings per state? Ok, that’s how you figure out what city is safer, I guess.

        • dswaim

          2 months ago

          That is the most flawed and manipulated stat I’ve ever heard. Those 129 mass shootings include murder-suicide, 2 or more people with guns firing at each other. NY is by far and away more dangerous and its ran by criminals.

      • smd

        2 months ago

        Why do people make this argument all the time, like it’s the only consideration players have? Some people actually like living in New York regardless of the taxes.

        Reply
      • ButchAdams

        2 months ago

        I’m sure it all balances out in the end. We don’t have state income taxes, but incredibly high property taxes, especially in dfw

        Reply
        • bloomquist4hof

          2 months ago

          I dont think it does though. Texas is a middle/low tax state overall. New York is literally the highest.

      • Robrock30

        2 months ago

        ChiSox,

        As a Former South Sider & NYC dweller who knew the Veeck Family I have to Agree.

        The Rats be Deserting the Sinking Ship

        Reply
    • vinc3nt3

      2 months ago

      Caveat Emptor. I wish them well.

      Reply
    • DakotaJoe

      2 months ago

      I really hope he stays healthy and pitches great for the Rangers, but based on getting another year older, not so good starts later in the year last year and his history of injuries this has all the makings for a horrible signing.

      Reply
    • angt222

      2 months ago

      TEX should sign Rodon now. They got the two big bats last offseason and should now get their two big arms.

      Reply
  2. tad2b13

    2 months ago

    Wow.

    Reply
    • Yankee Clipper

      2 months ago

      Wow

      Reply
      • pt57

        2 months ago

        Wow wow

        Reply
        • goastros123

          2 months ago

          Wow.

        • thickiedon

          2 months ago

          Wheeeeeeeeeee!

        • sjwil1

          2 months ago

          wow wheeee!

        • raltongo

          2 months ago

          that’s a ton of cash for a guy who won’t make it to the postseason.

        • avenger65

          2 months ago

          And if he does?

      • luclusciano

        2 months ago

        Wowser

        Reply
      • luclusciano

        2 months ago

        And MUCH. Healer payrolls.

        Reply
    • sufferforsnakes

      2 months ago

      Bow Wow

      Reply
  3. shark stitches

    2 months ago

    WOW!

    Reply
    • shark stitches

      2 months ago

      Congratulations Texas. I hope he stays healthy.

      Reply
    • dmbphils27

      2 months ago

      Glad he’s not in the NL east anymore! Lol

      Reply
      • ham77

        2 months ago

        Yes me too, but I have a feeling we’ll have to deal with Rodon now. Not nearly as scary though.

        Reply
        • hopper15

          2 months ago

          It’s probably going to take 200 mil to sign Rodon. Boras has even more leverage now.

      • ham77

        2 months ago

        As a Phillies fan I hope the Mets blow their wad on JV. He looked like a shell of himself in the playoffs.

        Reply
        • ChuckyNJ

          2 months ago

          The Fightin’s need not worry because the LOLmets blew out their pitching budget by giving it all to Edwin Diaz.

        • Cohens_Wallet

          2 months ago

          As a Mets fan I understand where your coming from, I rather have Rodon at 5 for 148.

        • ham77

          2 months ago

          That would probably get it done. Wouldn’t surprise me if they get both Rodon and JV.

        • SocoComfort

          2 months ago

          @Chucky Diaz is making like $18 a year while Degrom looks like he is going to get double that a year. You joke but the Mets are not done spending and they are getting a starter.

        • Robrock30

          2 months ago

          Cohen’s Wallet,

          The Mets need to stop dumping $ on over the Hill aging Players. Level the Roster and Rebuild and clean out the FO from Wilpon holdovers. The Farm System needs to be reconstructed so that Mets can develop the Team the right way from the Bottom Up.

        • Cohens_Wallet

          2 months ago

          Robrock

          The Mets are really trying to emulate the Dodgers formula of spending till the farm produces. The Dodgers success since that system was put in place is 2nd to none. I believe the Dodgers showed everyone there’s more than just one way to do things.

        • Robrock30

          2 months ago

          Cohen’s Wallet,

          The Game has Changed. By signing the FAs with the QO for Luxury Tax Teams the penalties are severe. The Mets were a distressed asset when Cohen purchased the Team. I disagreed strongly with him bringing Alderson back who has done nothing but fubar everything. The way forward is to expunge, hire new FO and rebuild the farm system the right way like the Astros have done from the bottom up.

    • Bledcam

      2 months ago

      I really wasn’t expecting DeGrom. I thought his price would be unrealistic. Rodon felt like best case scenario for us. Now to swing a big time trade.

      Reply
      • Indianfan

        2 months ago

        It is unralistic for any GM with any brains.

        Reply
  4. Highest_IQ

    2 months ago

    Um ok. Great deal.

    Reply
    • Ignorant Son-of-a-b

      2 months ago

      A GM or PBO has the responsibility to reign in a profligate, unmoored, high on his own supply owner such as we see in Texas with this contract. Chris Young’s job was to say, “whoah Nellie, gimme the keys, you have consumed too much tonight. That contract you wish to put forward is fraught with existential financial risk and is otherwise unsound, unwise, and bat-s&it crazy to be honest.” Chris Young you failed in your job, and this does not portend well for the future success of the Rangers franchise sorry not sorry.

      Reply
      • MannyBeingMVP

        2 months ago

        No, the job of the GM is to carefully explain the risk and opportunity cost, give prudent advise, and then to let the owner decide putting on a happy face on public. That is how every team decides nine figure contracts

        Reply
        • Ignorant Son-of-a-b

          2 months ago

          Yeah you would think that’s how things should run in a rational, normal, theoretical front office but I’m postulating here that there is dysfunction and financial malpractice running amok, because this contract is just so daffy and ill-advised in my purview.

  5. EliMorganFanClub

    2 months ago

    Woah!!

    Reply
  6. Republicans Will Get Rid Of Social Security

    2 months ago

    WHAT??????

    Reply
  7. wmurphy24

    2 months ago

    Woah

    Reply
  8. cainer18

    2 months ago

    Holy moly, I didn’t think he’d get that fifth year. I guess he had to take “only” $37M a year instead of $40M+ but wow

    Reply
    • mookiesboy

      2 months ago

      he knows he’s not going to pitch in that last year

      Reply
  9. Joe Carters walkoff

    2 months ago

    Holy crap

    Reply
  10. Ignorant Son-of-a-b

    2 months ago

    The Metropolitans dropped the ball wtf.

    Reply
    • rct

      2 months ago

      That is a lot of money and years, so I’m not too sure it’s a bad thing they didn’t sign him.

      Reply
      • yetipro

        2 months ago

        No free agent in his position would or ever has chosen to go to the Mets unless their offer is quite clearly better. There are teams that get things like a “hometown discount” or the like. The Mets are not one of them. DeGrom was even on the record as disliking playing for the Mets…

        They did not want to destroy the Rangers offer so, they didn’t get him.

        Reply
        • rct

          2 months ago

          “DeGrom was even on the record as disliking playing for the Mets…”

          No, he absolutely was not. If you’re going to hate the Mets, there are plenty of factual reasons for you to do so (which I say as a fan). You don’t have to make things up out of thin air.

        • Ignorant Son-of-a-b

          2 months ago

          Sources please?

      • MarlinsFanBase

        2 months ago

        Steven Cohen-pon!

        😛

        Reply
    • kabphillie

      2 months ago

      I think they dodged a bullet. DeGrom won’t last that contract, not with his injury history. I’m glad he is out of the NL East, but I think it’s a win for the Mets too.

      Reply
  11. morebreakdowns

    2 months ago

    wow 37 per, I thought he’d get more

    Reply
    • Pete'sView

      2 months ago

      MORE ?? Yowza!

      Reply
      • MannyBeingMVP

        2 months ago

        Actually so did I. I guessed three years for Jacob from Mets at 43 per year like Scherzer. And three years for Justin at 43 per year from Dodgers or 43 per year for two years from Houston

        Reply
    • Four4fore

      2 months ago

      No state income tax in Texas so it is more.

      Reply
      • williemaysfield

        2 months ago

        That does help but players pay state tax by where the games are played. Games against A’s, Angels, and Mariners are high taxes. Games Against the Astro will help offset it.

        Reply
        • SocoComfort

          2 months ago

          @Williemays Yea no matter where Degrom went to it would have been a better tax situation than playing in New York City. Legit one of the heaviest tax states and cities on top of being one of the most expensive cities to live in the world

        • avenger65

          2 months ago

          The way I understand it, for example, a player lives in California but plays in Detroit. He not only has to pay California state taxes, he also has to pay taxes in Michigan for the time he was employed there.

        • Blue Baron

          2 months ago

          @williemaysfield: No state tax in Washington either, FWIW.

        • Winslow Leach

          2 months ago

          Don’t you bring my Angels into this!!!!!!
          I’m warning you.

        • BPax

          2 months ago

          We have no state income tax in Washington.

      • Samuel

        2 months ago

        Four4fore;

        Texas has high property taxes to run their state government agencies.

        Unless Mr. deGrom and his family sleep in the Rangers locker room, it doesn’t matter whether he buys or rents……he’s going to pay.

        P.S. A friend of mine sold his house in Houston and moved to Tennessee because his property tax payments were higher than his mortgage.

        Reply
        • BStrowman

          2 months ago

          When your income is this high you’d rather have higher property taxes than Income. Unless he lives in a 40 million dollar home. Which is highly unlikely.

        • TheDogDays

          2 months ago

          It’s still cheaper than New York, that was his point.

        • misterbill

          2 months ago

          When you’re making that kind of money, real estate taxes are just noise. And I thought that he lives in Florida.

        • BStrowman

          2 months ago

          But it totally believe your friends story.

          Most people don’t make 10x in yearly salary what their home is worth. DeGrom is a rare exception. He can go rent a place in Texas for a couple years and be better off if he doesn’t want to lay down anything permanent.

        • etex211

          2 months ago

          There is no state property tax. Our property taxes are high, but they go to the city, county, school district, and county hospital district.

          Like somebody else already said, the property taxes he’ll pay will be a fraction of the income tax he’d pay in other states.

      • SausageOfDoom

        2 months ago

        Folks are funny talking about taxes for players making this much money. Whether you pay state tax or not for your 81 home games, makes zero difference in terms of quality of life.

        …and if someone is all about the $, the contract value & AAV are the headline numbers that everyone sees and talks about, not his net pay.

        Reply
        • utah cornelius

          2 months ago

          Exactly. I would say location, proximity to family and friends, teammates, and climate are a lot more important than state taxes to a ballplayer.

    • Yankee Clipper

      2 months ago

      Several pundits had him eclipsing Max’s record by several million. Clemens, a writer for Fangraphs, had him receiving $47MM/3 years.

      Reply
      • Pete'sView

        2 months ago

        Yeah, but 5 years?

        Reply
        • Yankee Clipper

          2 months ago

          No way!! That’s like predicting the Pirates to win the WS in ‘23.

        • LouWhitakerHOF

          2 months ago

          6y $222m if you include the option. Wow!!

        • Logjammer D"Baggagecling

          2 months ago

          It’s crazy how the Pirates won 97 games in 2015. They fell off so fast. They had Cole and Mustgrove. Not even sure if they have anyone from those trades. Or if they even worked out.

          I didn’t even realize Musgrove and Cole were traded for each other.

        • fre5hwind

          2 months ago

          Ahem, Clipper…

        • gomer33

          2 months ago

          If he somehow pitches enough to get that option then it will be a steal for the Rangers.

        • Yankee Clipper

          2 months ago

          Sorry, freshwind, first thing that came to mind. You’re a good egg, no offense intended.

        • fre5hwind

          2 months ago

          It’s all good.

        • MannyBeingMVP

          2 months ago

          I am sure five years at 185 sounds better than three years at 129

        • Skeptical

          2 months ago

          @Logjammer. The Pirates got Musgrove and three others for Cole. The others were all eventually released. Trained Musgrove for Endy Rodriguez, David Bednard and a couple of other players in a three team deal.

          Yes,amazing how fast they went from contending to bottom dwellers.

  12. Ra

    2 months ago

    Setting the market.

    Reply
    • YourDreamGM

      2 months ago

      For who? The next best pitcher in baseball that’s his age with health concerns? Going to be hard for a comp to come around while this number is still relevant.

      Reply
      • MannyBeingMVP

        2 months ago

        I think it means Justin gets three years minimum and Rodon gets five years minimum.

        While each has unique circumstances, they are only so many aces to be drawn

        Reply
      • Ra

        2 months ago

        For all starting pitchers. Get your head out of the sand.

        Reply
        • YourDreamGM

          2 months ago

          So all other pitchers even if they aren’t as good as DeGrom or the same age or a year apart and or the same injury history. Interesting. I disagree but appreciate your opinion.

        • Ra

          2 months ago

          No. And that’s not what I said nor what I implied. Fallacies like yours denigrate conversation.

        • YourDreamGM

          2 months ago

          I asked… “For who?” You replied… “For all starting pitchers. Get your head out of the sand.” Sounds like you need to take your own advice.

        • Pads Fans

          2 months ago

          A rising tide floats all boat. DeGrom getting that kind of money and especially years raises up what everyone after him gets a little bit.

        • Ra

          2 months ago

          Grow up. If you don’t think that a big contract sets the stage for other FAs to sign big contracts, you are either stupid or lying.

        • Ra

          2 months ago

          Meanwhile, the deGrom contract set the stage for not only pitchers like Verlander at 3/$87MM but for position players too, e.g. Turner for 11/$300MM

  13. Lefty_Orioles_Fan

    2 months ago

    SMH, what are the Mets going to do????

    Reply
    • Lee Harvey Oddball

      2 months ago

      Sign two solid starters instead of one with questions about durability? And bring back Brandon Nimmo? And still be better than the O’s?

      Reply
      • manrock

        2 months ago

        barely better

        Reply
      • Ignorant Son-of-a-b

        2 months ago

        Best screen name of the week, +10

        Reply
    • Berkner

      2 months ago

      Sign Verlander

      Reply
    • VonPurpleHayes

      2 months ago

      Mets will be just fine, and arguably even better.

      Reply
      • MannyBeingMVP

        2 months ago

        Too early to say anything, want to see what Mets, Atlanta and your Phils do. This is just the beginning.

        Reply
      • Pads Fans

        2 months ago

        When you lose 60% of your starting pitching, you are not better. They have some humongous holes to fill.

        Reply
        • JackStrawb

          2 months ago

          @Pads Fans AND they have to do it when the FA market is not on their side. Elite pitching is almost non-existent, and will be extremely expensive. Bullpen arms that are more than fodder have been going for astronomical prices. As for CF, after Nimmo there’s nothing.

          If payroll is ‘only’ $300m, the Mets will go into the 2023 season a solid 3rd behind Atlanta and Philly.

    • Pads Fans

      2 months ago

      When they stop panicking, they will pivot to overpaying Rodon or Senga.

      Reply
      • BStrowman

        2 months ago

        The Mets only got 11 starts out of Degrom and won 101 games so it doesn’t make them as bad off as public perception.

        Reply
  14. RyanD44

    2 months ago

    I guessed it right!

    Reply
  15. amk1920

    2 months ago

    Mets could’ve easily signed him if they didn’t want to pay a late 30s Scherzer so much. Cohen is the Wilpons with money

    Reply
    • rct

      2 months ago

      I can’t imagine the Mets giving that contract to deGrom regardless of the Scherzer deal.

      Reply
    • JackStrawb

      2 months ago

      @amk1920 Exactly what I’ve thought, along with “don’t these guys have a whiteboard?”

      How could the FO have been this unawares that they’d be in serious trouble heading into the 2023 season if they built a team that would depart en masse after 2022?

      The desperation for Lindor, to make a splash at a position the Mets had well covered while having holes elsewhere all over the roster, and despite Lindor having been in decline in 2019 then 2020, was even worse than the Scherzer deal.

      Reply
      • Samuel

        2 months ago

        Jack;

        You hit it solidly on the head.

        I think the Lindor deal and subsequent contract soured the players on the club that worked so hard for so long to make that team as competitive as possible. One by one they seem to be playing out their options.

        That trade was pivotal for Cleveland.

        Reply
      • sams

        2 months ago

        I wasn’t even a fan of the Lindor trade or extension but really? Lindor was declining? He had a rough 2020 (as lots of people did) but his 2019 slash line was .284/.335/.518 with 32 homers and 22 steals with a nearly 6 WAR at SS, and after a meh 2021 put up a 126 wRC+ and a 7 WAR this year. He’s far from the problem.

        Reply
        • BStrowman

          2 months ago

          What’s wrong with the Scherzer deal? He stays on the field a lot longer than Degrom and the years were much shorter

  16. PinstripedPride

    2 months ago

    WOW!!! WHAT?? HOLY SMOKES!! Well, I’m guessing Justin Verlander is a Met now?

    Reply
    • tstats

      2 months ago

      Im going to go with Dodger

      Reply
    • reno24

      2 months ago

      Verlander is going to LA where he lives. Rondon is likely going to the Mets

      Reply
      • Samuel

        2 months ago

        reno24;

        Dodgers don’t have the money for Verlander.

        Watch.

        Reply
        • norcalblue

          2 months ago

          Actually, they have the money, they’re just not gonna be willing to spend it. And spending like this is what gets teams in terrible predicament in the out years.

          Friedman needs to reset his luxury tax penalties and this is looking like the perfect year to do it!

      • C Yards Jeff

        2 months ago

        If he got 5, Verlander definitely gets at minimum 3. So goodbye Houston!

        Reply
      • PinstripedPride

        2 months ago

        The Yankees have been reported to be in on Verlander and Rodon, although to what extent is unknown. I’m thinking they’ll get a new pitcher for sure, but if Judge leaves then I’m absolutely declaring that Rodon is a Yankee.

        Reply
        • Dorothy_Mantooth

          2 months ago

          Now that deGrom is off the board, there’s a good chance that either Rodon or Verlander sign by the end of the Winter meetings. If Judge has not made up his mind by then, it will be tough for NY to sign either one of them unless they are willing to say goddbye to Judge. NY is in pretty good shape CBT wise right now, but signing Rodon/ JV and Judge would put them in luxury tax purgatory for years to come. Hal has not been willing to do this in the past so I’d be surprised if he changes his strategy in 2023.

      • MannyBeingMVP

        2 months ago

        If the Dodgers extend Julio and pick up a position player then no JV. But JV and a small trade could eliminate big FA position player.

        Reply
    • CursedRangers

      2 months ago

      The Rangers might do another Texas two step like they did last year with their infield and snag Verlander as well.

      Reply
      • avenger65

        2 months ago

        They should go after Rodon. Younger and a lefty.

        Reply
  17. Edp007

    2 months ago

    I said many times here the Rangers will again spend big this off season.
    Watch them make an offer to Judgie too.

    Reply
    • Dorothy_Mantooth

      2 months ago

      Don’t count Texas out on Rodon either. They proved last season they don’t mind spending huge money in free agency and adding Rodon would substantially increase their playoff chances in 2023. Texas wants to win now and even with deGrom, they still need another TOR arm to have a chance at competing against Houston and Seattle.

      Reply
  18. Biggavelli

    2 months ago

    Wow just woww!

    Reply
  19. stroh

    2 months ago

    Great move for the Rangers, depending on his health.

    Reply
  20. drprofkevin

    2 months ago

    OMG

    Thank you Rangers

    Reply
  21. Highest_IQ

    2 months ago

    Texas is going to win the division, be good for 3-4 years then absolutely suck for years.

    Reply
    • marinersblue96

      2 months ago

      Wind the division, they will be lucky to get 2nd. Astros are still the best, M’s still have better starting pitching, bullpen, and an all around deeper lineup.

      Reply
      • Mets6986??

        2 months ago

        Do you think this is the only Rangers move this year? They are going to sign a few more big names.

        Reply
        • flyingblindsquirrel

          2 months ago

          Do you think the Asterisks and Mariners are done making moves?

        • Mets6986??

          2 months ago

          The Astros yes. Mariners no.

      • Samuel

        2 months ago

        marinersblue96;

        Angels will come in 2nd.

        Reply
        • BStrowman

          2 months ago

          Angels are going to have a hard time coming in 2nd with a backend of a bullpen that shaky. & 2 highly paid position players that seem to miss significant time as of late.

    • bkbkbkbk

      2 months ago

      This team will not win a single division over the next decade. You heard it here first.

      Reply
      • Mets6986??

        2 months ago

        I wouldn’t bet on that. The Astros are getting old, don’t have a GM and losing stars every year.

        Reply
        • VonPurpleHayes

          2 months ago

          Astros have a pretty good young core. I have to disagree about the getting old factor. They’ve been replacing their older stars with younger talent.

        • flamingbagofpoop

          2 months ago

          And replacing them with new ones.

        • Seamaholic

          2 months ago

          The Astros are getting old? Like, who?

        • Mets6986??

          2 months ago

          Most of their bullpen, Verlander was their best pitcher and is gone, Abreu and Altuve are on their declines. There is no way they control the division over the next decade. Their farm system is ranked 29th.

        • VonPurpleHayes

          2 months ago

          Verlander is definitely not their best pitcher, despite the great regular season.

        • jjd002

          2 months ago

          Altuve just had his second best season of his career… they own the AL for at least the next 4 seasons. Likely own the west for the next 7. Nobody is really close to them. Their core is not old.

        • fred-3

          2 months ago

          7 years? Do you know how long that is

        • jjd002

          2 months ago

          I didn’t stutter. They are much better than anyone else in that division.

        • fred-3

          2 months ago

          They aren’t going to as dominant in 7 years. 3 years? Sure, but 7 years is a entirety. For example, the Royals were champions 7 years ago.

        • Mets6986??

          2 months ago

          Yes he was and it wasn’t even close. He cleared over a run a game over your second best pitcher. Who by the way will be out of town after next season. The Astros had a dominant bullpen that won them the World Series and you think that projects out over 7 years of dominance? They had the 8th best offense in baseball . The Astros will be in complete tear down mode in the next few years..

        • tanner829 2

          2 months ago

          Are you 10 years old?

        • jjd002

          2 months ago

          Yea, nobody in the west is near their talent level. Losing Verlander doesn’t hurt as much as you think it is. How old do you think Alvarez, Pena, Bregman, Javier, and Tucker are? You need to do your research Mr Met fan.

    • stroh

      2 months ago

      Hmmm….I would say they go from 68 wins to 72 maybe. But certainly, a step in the right direction.

      Reply
      • MannyBeingMVP

        2 months ago

        I would project third place and 76 wins.

        Reply
        • Ma4170

          2 months ago

          I’m projecting they’re over 500

        • MannyBeingMVP

          2 months ago

          By the way, I gave them two extra wins in my guess just for hiring Bochy.

    • Simm

      2 months ago

      You mean come in 3rd

      Reply
      • Samuel

        2 months ago

        Simm;

        I’m an adult.

        I wrote what I mean.

        Short of massive injuries to the Astros, Angels, and Mariners the Rangers will be a 4th place team in 2023…..and I expect them to overreach for at least one more contract.

        They look like Artie Moreno is running that operation.

        Reply
        • Simm

          2 months ago

          I was replying to the dude that said the rangers will win th3 division. I also don’t think the angled will come in 2nd. Unless you meant 2nd to last.

        • TheDogDays

          2 months ago

          Angels? Texas will have a better record.

    • Dustyslambchops23

      2 months ago

      Did the mariners and Astros move out of the AL west?

      Both teams have better top end talent and much much much deeper 40 Mans.

      Reply
    • rct

      2 months ago

      Texas does not develop enough young talent to win the division. Until they do, they’ll just be an expensive, underachieving team.

      Reply
    • DeGrom Texas Ranger

      2 months ago

      As a Rangers fan, I would love this!

      Reply
  22. jt33nym

    2 months ago

    Enjoy Rangers fans! Hope he stays healthy. When he was, every one of his starts was an event

    Reply
  23. wjf010

    2 months ago

    pitchers are terrible free agent investments….especially one who is hurt all the time. sign position players and develop pitching. it you can’t develop pitching, go work for the Twins.

    Reply
    • avenger65

      2 months ago

      Even a pitcher with a history of injuries is well worth the risk if that pitcher is named deGrom. I’m sure the Rangers didn’t go into this blindly. They likely had him checked out before signing him.

      Reply
  24. FletcherFan69

    2 months ago

    Justin Verlander, you are a Los Angeles Dodger!

    Reply
    • mlbdodgerfan2015

      2 months ago

      I’m guessing that Verlander will want at least three years which will leave the Dodgers out.

      Reply
      • FletcherFan69

        2 months ago

        I don’t think anyone’s giving him that 4th year. Might come down to deferred money which could disadvantage the Dodgers against the Mets though

        Reply
        • mlbdodgerfan2015

          2 months ago

          I’m not sure if the Dodgers even want to go three years. He’s 40 years old. That is risky.

      • norcalblue

        2 months ago

        I hope so.

        Reply
    • avenger65

      2 months ago

      Wouldn’t it be interesting if jv didn’t sign for either the Dodgers or Mets?

      Reply
      • MannyBeingMVP

        2 months ago

        If not Dodgers or Mets, then either back to Houston or to Yankees if they lose Judge. Unless Texas signs JV, too!

        Reply
        • coldgoldenfalstaff

          2 months ago

          Houston doesn’t want to give him 3 years much less 4. IMO Crane wants him to circle back after the market dries up and take a higher 1 year deal.

  25. mrmet17

    2 months ago

    What the what?!

    Reply
  26. benhen77

    2 months ago

    Verlander to Mets, now?

    Reply
  27. tstats

    2 months ago

    Who else is excited for the conditional option clauses??

    Reply
    • rememberthecoop

      2 months ago

      I’ve got a woody!

      Reply
      • Edp007

        2 months ago

        Thought That woody was saved for Carlos Correa

        Reply
  28. padam

    2 months ago

    Mets playing smart.

    Reply
  29. redsox for_life

    2 months ago

    Mets Velander 140/3

    Reply
    • steven st croix

      2 months ago

      Which would be an overpay for JV

      Reply
    • rct

      2 months ago

      According to Joel Sherman, the Mets were offering deGrom three years, $120 million. I wonder if they turn around and put that offer in front of Verlander.

      Reply
      • padam

        2 months ago

        Mets know DeGrom better than anyone, and DeGrom knows it. Both most likely know his arm won’t make it passed three years at that rate. He relies on the heat, whereas Scherzer doesn’t and pitches. I believe the Mets were smart in passing up the 5 years – that’s too long to be tied up in an arm that could potentially be sidelined. The Nats are dealing with that in Strasberg. Guessing they’ll tag with Rondon or Verlander and maybe grab a Taillon for the 3. I’d like to see Peterson get a shot at the 5…think he deserves it.

        Reply
  30. Ma4170

    2 months ago

    Very happy the Mets didn’t go this long / high

    Reply
    • Yankee Clipper

      2 months ago

      Yeah, I’m not surprised that the Rangers signed him, but I am shocked that it’s for 5-years, $185MM minimum.

      Reply
      • Ma4170

        2 months ago

        me too… 5 years is what really shocks me

        Reply
        • Yankee Clipper

          2 months ago

          Thank goodness we only need to guess the team and not the contractual terms on the FA contest!

        • Dr2022

          2 months ago

          I’m not surprised at the amount of money, but that is a long time for an individual with his health status and age. I might have tried to sign him for more money but shorter years. I have no reason to think that Texas did not, but it did not work.

      • tad2b13

        2 months ago

        Likewise. I’m guessing that the Rangers had to go to a 5th year in order to get him to sign there.

        Reply
        • Ma4170

          2 months ago

          I’m sure you’re right. And let’s be real, if Degrom is healthy, TX will start to be dangerous. Lost a lot of one run games and have a good amount of prime age talent. Could easily see them go for a Taillon type too.

        • padam

          2 months ago

          I’d say he’s still the best in the game, but the end of last year he was giving up moonshots and that ERA climbed up over 3 relatively fast, especially for him. As a Mets fan I’m saddened to see him go and wear a different uniform, but at the same time with all the money that will and is tied up, it’s smart that it’s not with him. Rondon at 30 makes more sense and will come in for less.

      • slider32

        2 months ago

        Rangers made the commitment to de Grom, and if he stays healthy they have a top 5 starting pitching. They made the move that the Angels have been trying to do for years. I like this move for Jason, he will be pitching in good weather most of the time, which coulld help him staying healthy

        Reply
        • tad2b13

          2 months ago

          I think you mean Jacob. This is exactly the kind of deal the Angels should not make.

          Not hating this deal for the short term. I could be wrong, but not sure paying deGrom $74M for his age 38 and 39 seasons is wise given his history.

        • Ma4170

          2 months ago

          If they get three seasons of 27+ starts from him, that’s a win with this type of deal. Because it’s a safe bet he’ll be near elite in those starts (based on his track record).

        • tad2b13

          2 months ago

          Ma4170, Totally agree, but can they get those 3 seasons/27 GS? He hasn’t been able to do that over the past 2 seasons.

        • Ma4170

          2 months ago

          idk, seems less likely just because he throws so damn hard and seems reluctant to tone it down. Not sure if his frame can support that into his late 30s.

      • Selah Rick 2

        2 months ago

        Probably shocked Degrom as well. Hence why he was so quick to sign it.

        Reply
  31. Dbacks44

    2 months ago

    Wow! If he’s healthy it’s a GREAT DEAL!! a few years ago no one would have thought this was possible. Bochy great start!

    Reply
  32. Lone Rangers

    2 months ago

    The Mets are smart to let him walk but man this stings

    Reply
    • Ma4170

      2 months ago

      well put… as a met fan I agree

      Reply
    • slider32

      2 months ago

      Hindsignt will be 20/20 on that one!

      Reply
      • Lone Rangers

        2 months ago

        slider, the hindsight for me is that the Scherzer deal put deGrom’s departure in motion

        Reply
  33. geg42

    2 months ago

    Never believe the rumors about wanting to stay with an incumbent club for free agents. If they wanted to stay, they would sign extensions.
    Yes, overgeneralizing a lot

    Reply
  34. miggywrld

    2 months ago

    Holy cow

    Reply
    • Yankee Clipper

      2 months ago

      Love the Phil Rizzuto reference!

      Reply
    • Fifty

      2 months ago

      Love the Harry Caray reference!

      Reply
  35. alt2tab

    2 months ago

    Texas competing with the Angels for most star power and albatross contracts with nothing to show for it!

    Reply
    • AgeeHarrelsonJones

      2 months ago

      Well said! And the comparison is spot-on. But its not just about players contracts. The Angels thought that a genius manager could wake up a moribund team. Didnt happen in Anaheim. We’ll see if it works in Arlington. Im skeptical.

      Reply
  36. VonPurpleHayes

    2 months ago

    5 years?? Good lord. Best pitcher in the game, but can’t pitch a full-season anymore. He deserves his pay day. Cannot believe it’s not with the Mets, but I think they had to let him go…they couldn’t go 5 years.

    Reply
    • Ma4170

      2 months ago

      there’s no way they could… but yes, when fully healthy, he’s borderline amazing. But with how hard he throws, I can’t see him staying healthy like he did before 2021. Hate to see him go, but happy they didn’t match this.

      Reply
      • VonPurpleHayes

        2 months ago

        Makes you wonder if they’re really going to regret Scherzer. Without that contract, I think deGrom stays.

        Reply
        • Ma4170

          2 months ago

          Agreed… though I’ve wanted Rodon from day one this offseason, even with his injury history. But I see Verlander on the mets which I don’t love.

        • Yankee Clipper

          2 months ago

          I agree, Ma4170. Rodon, power lefty, cheaper, younger, and I’d take him over Verlander. To clarify, I’m not saying Rodon is better than Verlander, but at this point, I like what he brings to my team vs Verlander and I think his fit on the Mets is similarly advantageous as Rodon’s fit as a power lefty who doesn’t give up HRs is on the Yanks.

        • Lone Rangers

          2 months ago

          You’re spot on. If they hadn’t driven up Scherzer’s price, Jake wouldn’t have commanded that much and the Mets could afford him

        • VonPurpleHayes

          2 months ago

          I have the Mets getting Rodon, who is another injury risk, but I think has more upside than Verlander. Maybe they get both.

        • Ma4170

          2 months ago

          clip – if Yanks get rodon that would be a huge add

        • Ma4170

          2 months ago

          Just heard that Degrom’s agents didn’t involve the mets as they negotiated with Texas, which tells you he was gone regardless

        • Yankee Clipper

          2 months ago

          Oh wow, that’s really interesting. I wonder why that is? There seemed to be mutual respect and desire to re-sign.

        • Ma4170

          2 months ago

          Either he really didn’t like it in NY, or they made it clear they wouldn’t go to Scherzer level money early on? Those are my likeliest guesses.

        • Samuel

          2 months ago

          Ma4170;

          As I wrote below…..

          It’s either Mr. Cohen or playing in NYC.

          The core Mets are bailing. The hot dogs like it there.

        • Ma4170

          2 months ago

          so does that mean Correa is coming to the mets lol… please no

        • MarlinsFanBase

          2 months ago

          Guys, There was something about DeGrom wanting to play closer to his home in Florida. The reality is that the other teams in the area or vicinity (Braves, Rays, Marlins, and even Astros) were not going to give him this money. Texas just had to pay enough to keep him from going back to the Mets.

          Don’t make more of this then it is. And I’m saying this as a Mets basher.

        • Samuel

          2 months ago

          MarlinsFanBase;

          It’s not just deGrom that left as a Mets veteran.

        • MarlinsFanBase

          2 months ago

          @Samuel

          Did I miss another signing? Who else left?

        • DeGrom Texas Ranger

          2 months ago

          DeGrom has never thrown 200 innings or more in his career. DeGrom and Verlander have several seasons with 200+

        • avenger65

          2 months ago

          Hard as it seems to believe, there other teams out there besides the Mets, Yankeesand Dodgers. Sometimes in other parts of the country – like Arlington, Texas, sign big name players.

        • Samuel

          2 months ago

          MarlinsFanBase;

          Thor. Conforto.

          Look at this years Mets free agents. I have questions that even one will resign with them.

          And a few are on multi-year contracts that I think would like to be traded.

          One would think that being on a team that won 110 games with the richest owner in MLB they’d be locked up.

          I’m not being a basher here. I don’t see this situation with the Braves or Phillies. Their players want to be there.

        • MarlinsFanBase

          2 months ago

          @Samuel

          Good point. I didn’t even consider any of that. I just have always gone with knowing that players, like all humans, prefer to be closer to home, and that NY is not an ideal place for people who grew up and lived all of their lives somewhere else. But your observations do point to there being more to it.

          It sounds similar to what happens with the Knicks to some extent.

        • Flanster

          2 months ago

          Von, From your mouth to Steve Cohen’s checkbook

        • Flyby

          2 months ago

          Conforto didnt leave.he got bad advice … you think if the mets still had that QO on the table conforto would be jumping for joy to return. Conforto got it in his ears he was getting huge contract offer but bet on himself and failed. Then the mets even offered him the QO and declined and still wandering the FA market since.

          thor didnt even get out of QO when he signed with the angels he basically didnt even do FA with strike coming up

        • Samuel

          2 months ago

          Flyby;

          Oh, please.

          Scott Boras doesn’t TELL his players what to do. He explains the situation and they make their own decisions. If he was giving out “bad advice” he wouldn’t have the number of players under contract to his corporation. There is no agency in any professional sport in the world that has anywhere near the amount of clients the Boras corporation has active today.

          The BS you’re spewing out was said about Dallas Keuchel a few years ago. So he sat out a season. Mr. Boras got him all that money and more. He didn’t even play for the White Sox this year and they were paying him.

          Mr. Conforto is going to come out just fine.

        • Flyby

          2 months ago

          atleast get your facts straight if you going to throw out bs… Keuchel never sat out a season he signed a pro rated contract with Atlanta and had to prove he would be worth that money and and had a very good half season which led to his signing with the white sox.when he had no QO.

          How about Stephen Drew, Kendry Morales and countless others. He tells him he can get them this, sometimes the players dont follow blindlessly and think for themselves and read the market better than he does ala Strasburg. Does he have a good success rate for his players if they just follow his lead .. yes there is no denying that especially if you are top end talent … mid tier he seems to not be able to read the market as well especially for QO players and most of them end up signing for less ala morales, sitting out til after the draft ala drew and keuchel, sit out the year conforto, or have to catch some luck and sign for the same deal they would have gotten months ago.

          so yes conforto and other based on boras history follow what boras says and probably dont really see the full market, but it really should be the agent to tell them what is best as players are players and not agents. In this case Boras failed conforto, btw boras is notorious for telling his clients dont sign a year away from free agency he can get them a boatload of money.

        • JackStrawb

          2 months ago

          @Yankee Clipper DeGrom was with the Mets through the Wilpons’ various, endless fiascoes, and the organization hasn’t come close to a complete turnover of the FO and medical staff (David Altchek is still there, to name just one) that wrecked David Wright and routinely played older and injured players into the ground and onto the IL.

          Degrom was there during Cohen’s ridiculous first year as team owner, and all the embarrassment and foolishness that involved–money only papers over so much of that, especially if you were on the inside.

          I don’t see anything resembling respect from deGrom towards the Mets, and his apparent disinterest really bears that out.

        • JackStrawb

          2 months ago

          Texas isn’t any closer to Florida. Arlington to Miami is farther away than NYC to Miami.

        • The Saber-toothed Superfife

          2 months ago

          Au contraire
          He turned down Mr. Cohen and the Mets offer and moved forward. He and his agents were very professional.

          Do you really think negotiations are about game playing and chain yanking?

        • flyingblindsquirrel

          2 months ago

          Diaz already did resign

        • flyingblindsquirrel

          2 months ago

          Because 4 of them would be on the IL at any given time

        • sams

          2 months ago

          He’s actually further from home than he was before.

          Guy got an offer no team was gonna match, which happened to be from a team in a market that’ll probably be a lot less critical of him, and even if the AAV is less than the Mets were offering, he’s still making more off of it due to taxes.

          Closer to home makes no sense because it isn’t, and maybe he did hate playing in NY but I don’t really buy that either. I just think he saw the offer and couldn’t say no.

        • Yankee Clipper

          2 months ago

          I heard on a baseball podcast this morning that the DeGrom reps advised the Mets of their TX offer and the Mets would not match.

          So, I’m not so sure it has anything to do with where he does/doesn’t want to play. If that Information is accurate it seems it is based on human nature – more years + more money = deal.

        • DeGrom Texas Ranger

          2 months ago

          I mean Rodon

  37. SFBay314

    2 months ago

    Bochy always admired him. Loved seeing him in All Star game when bochy was manager.

    I hate Texas but for Jake and Bruce!

    Reply
  38. NickofTime

    2 months ago

    This will end up being one of the worst contracts in baseball. Yikes!

    Reply
  39. NoTradeClause

    2 months ago

    Bochy is stoked

    Reply
    • MannyBeingMVP

      2 months ago

      Bochy job interview

      Rangers: What will it take for you to manage?

      Bochy: Pay me a lot and sign deGrom in the offseason

      Reply
  40. SupremeZeus

    2 months ago

    We talkin’ about the Rangers, not the Mets, the Rangers. Rangers.

    Reply
    • MannyBeingMVP

      2 months ago

      Call them the Power Rangers

      Reply
      • slider32

        2 months ago

        The Power Rangers now can take their time with great young arms like Lieter, Rocker, Winn, Porter, and White. They are going to be a good team sooner than later!

        Reply
  41. GB85

    2 months ago

    The sea was angry that day, my friends!

    Reply
  42. mlbdodgerfan2015

    2 months ago

    A bit reckless but that’s the Rangers for you. I guess Rangers don’t have a risk management group. $685mm in contracts for three players.

    Reply
    • balt0852

      2 months ago

      And not even finish above .500!!

      Reply
    • slider32

      2 months ago

      The signing of the new CBA you can see their is a lot of money to spend for teams this year, and they will spend it.

      Reply
  43. washmore24

    2 months ago

    I used to pray for times like this

    Reply
  44. balt0852

    2 months ago

    Wow! But will that be enough for the Rangers to be above .500 after spending $325 Million last year on Seager and Semien?

    Reply
    • Ma4170

      2 months ago

      I think so, if he can stay healthy

      Reply
    • YourDreamGM

      2 months ago

      Maybe when they are done. Barely.

      Reply
  45. shocktop

    2 months ago

    Things are starting to happen! Its about time. LET GO!! The Cubs need to make a lot of moves. Get on it Jed.

    Reply
    • YourDreamGM

      2 months ago

      Cubs need starting pitching bad.

      Reply
  46. Greenwell

    2 months ago

    34 yo and injury prone. Good for him

    Reply
  47. Dustyslambchops23

    2 months ago

    Lol people are going to be referencing this era of the Rangers for a long time

    Reply
    • YourDreamGM

      2 months ago

      The overzealous era.

      Reply
  48. boltonbrutality

    2 months ago

    Bad, bad move – I really hope I’m wrong. He’s pitched around 12 games/year over the last 3 seasons. I know 2020 was a different year, but we’re essentially paying him over 3M per game. I’d much rather have paid for Rodon with his age and price of his services.

    Reply
    • Ma4170

      2 months ago

      But look at this way… if he can stay relatively healthy, he’s the best or one of the top 3. I watched him pitch for 9 years and it’s a different level.

      Reply
      • slider32

        2 months ago

        Yes, if healthy deGrom is a game changer, he is the best pitcher in baseball.

        Reply
    • YourDreamGM

      2 months ago

      History, his and mega contracts says you’re likely right.

      Reply
  49. Fg-3

    2 months ago

    The rangers have spent 685 million in 3 players. What in gods name is happening in Arlington

    Reply
    • Berkner

      2 months ago

      Desperation

      Reply
    • Yankee Clipper

      2 months ago

      2003?

      Reply
      • MarlinsFanBase

        2 months ago

        I love when a Yankees fan mentions 2003.

        Reply
    • Yanks2

      2 months ago

      And still finished 30 games below 500

      Reply
    • raltongo

      2 months ago

      They gotta find some way to entice fans to come to that god-awful ballpark.

      Reply
    • The Saber-toothed Superfife

      2 months ago

      It’s BIG.
      So, it really should be no surprise…..

      Reply
  50. Yankee Clipper

    2 months ago

    I am pretty sure the Rays were right there in the running though!

    Reply
    • MannyBeingMVP

      2 months ago

      Well played, Yankee Clipper

      Reply
  51. steven st croix

    2 months ago

    Wow. He took the money to finish 3rd in the division.

    Reply
    • VonPurpleHayes

      2 months ago

      He’s been on the Mets. He finished 1st once in his career.

      Reply
      • Ma4170

        2 months ago

        Well in fairness, last year was basically as close to first as you can be, and three playoff appearances, so it wasn’t total futility lol

        Reply
        • VonPurpleHayes

          2 months ago

          2 of the 3 were blink and you missed it, but 2015 was pure magic. Fun squad.

        • Ma4170

          2 months ago

          Yeah the phillies run this year reminded me of the mets that year. Lightning in a bottle. So much fun.
          If Phils get Trea as expected, they’re legitimately scary

    • slider32

      2 months ago

      Yes, he was torchered pitching for the Mets, they never got him runs when he pitched!

      Reply
      • Ma4170

        2 months ago

        Do you know in his 209 starts, he gave up 2er or less 149 times? That’s insane. And only 82 wins. THey cost him so many wins over the years.

        Reply
      • Samuel

        2 months ago

        slider32;

        He pitched terribly this year when he came back for the stretch run.

        Reply
        • Ma4170

          2 months ago

          He was amazing his first 7 starts back… the last four weren’t great. Well, one was bad, the others were decent but HR killed him.

        • JackStrawb

          2 months ago

          @Ma4170 5 excellent starts of 11, 5 poor ones, and one middling. Not promising for Texas.

          It would have been one thing if Jake had come back in August and thrown 11 starts with a sub-2.00 ERA plus a decent postseason start. Then you’d have reason to believe that the greatness was still surely there and only the durability was in doubt. But 5, 5, and 1?

          That puts both quality and quantity in doubt.

          Making him the highest paid pitcher in baseball, second only to the Scherzer overpay of $53m versus what the Dodgers were offering, is nuts.

        • Jordan613

          2 months ago

          With degrom off the table it definitely made the Metsos a better team. I wouldn’t sign him more that a year, dude needs to prove he’s healthy. 101 win what was his contribution, oh wait he blew it in the playoffs. We are not that far from a WS, Texas though, they got work

        • Ma4170

          2 months ago

          @jack wow that’s a harsh assessment of those starts. Only one start more than 3er… even when he gave up 3 (five times), three of them were qs, whip was low, and K ridiculously high. So the HR hurt him in Sept but he was still mostly dominant w his stuff. People can look up the game logs, but a start like 6ip 3r 5h 0bb 11k isn’t a poor start at all. And then the postseason start 6ip 2r 5h 2bb 8k teams will take all day. And his underlying numbers are dominant, so ff he’s healthy he’ll be good. But idk how healthy he’ll be, and you and I agreed on that since day 1 – can’t bring him back for this kind of money or length. Rather take the risk on Rodon 4.5 years younger..

    • MarlinsFanBase

      2 months ago

      @steven st croix

      It won’t be the first time he’ll be with a team that finishes third or worse. The only difference now is that he’ll be richer and closer to home.

      Reply
  52. bravegator

    2 months ago

    So Mets get verlander or Rodon now???

    Reply
    • YourDreamGM

      2 months ago

      Both

      Reply
    • JackStrawb

      2 months ago

      @bravegator The usual reply, probably: It depends. Either the Mets had evaluated deGrom at something like 3/60m plus incentives and this was just preposterous for them regardless of how high they’re willing to go on the team’s 2023 payroll, or the rumored $300 million payroll the FO has implied as a maximum is in fact a fairly hard limit. If $300m is tops, then they can’t afford both. They can barely afford one, incredibly enough, given the lack of a bullpen, the lack of starters of any durability likely to pitch with even a league average ERA, the lack of a CFer, a 4th OFer, and a 5th OFer.

      Reply
      • Samuel

        2 months ago

        “…..given the lack of a bullpen, the lack of starters of any durability likely to pitch with even a league average ERA, the lack of a CFer, a 4th OFer, and a 5th OFer.”

        Jack;

        I admire you as a Mets fan – or follower – for pointing this out.

        From a distance one would wonder why they’re in this situation. They finally have an owner with deep pockets, and everyone said that was what was needed.

        Either the owner / FO is turning over that roster, or the players are leaving on their own.

        In deGrom’s case I don’t know how the Mets could have not just paid him, but depended on him so much for the next 5 years.

        For a team that just won 101 games, one would think their players would be enthusiastically looking to 2023.

        Reply
        • Chris from NJ

          2 months ago

          Wow man. I’ve got to say that’s an interesting take on this one. Seems more to me that you have a lack of knowledge of baseball and how finances work and a bias against the northeast. deGrom left because the Mets were not going to 5 years. Syndergaard left because he got a bigger contract then the QO he was offered. Conforto made a bad choice. Jacob deGrom left for more money. The same reason that Max Scherzer signed with New York. The Mets had a huge problem in the Wilpon”s ownership. Under there direction free agents may have been reluctant to sign because of the disfunction not the Mets geographical location.

  53. OaklandA'sFan!

    2 months ago

    I don’t even know what to say

    Reply
    • Gwynning

      2 months ago

      LA’st place in ’23 now confirmed, sorry bud.

      Reply
  54. davidk1979

    2 months ago

    Harvey, Wheeler, Syndergaard, Matz now deGrom the dream rotation is all gone. This hurts but I wouldn’t give him five years.

    Reply
    • MarlinsFanBase

      2 months ago

      At least the “Five Aces” won the Mets all those offseason championships! without those, this would have to sting. But no worries. Losing that legendary pitching staff will sting less when you all can celebrate all five of them getting into Cooperstown…right next to “Generation K”.

      Reply
  55. dshires4

    2 months ago

    Good luck with that arm Texas.

    Reply
  56. holecamels35

    2 months ago

    Insane but does anyone see this working out?

    Reply
    • MannyBeingMVP

      2 months ago

      20% chance deGrom gets three or more top-5 Cy Young Award finishes

      Likely deGrom gets three or more seasons with 25+ starts and sub-4 era

      Also likely that deGrom is injured during one-third of the contract but good when he pitches

      50% boom! (not in a good way)

      Reply
      • MarlinsFanBase

        2 months ago

        @MannyBeingMVP

        I wouldn’t put those chances that high. Father Time beats everyone.

        Reply
    • YourDreamGM

      2 months ago

      Rangers ownership

      Reply
    • mookiesboy

      2 months ago

      why not – it’s 3×45 plus 2×25

      Reply
  57. Attystephenadams

    2 months ago

    I loved watching him pitch for the Mets and I’m happy for him that he got his payday. I hope that he holds up for Texas. Now we’ll see if the Mets sign Rodon or Verlander. Good luck in Texas Jake, I’ll miss you.

    Reply
  58. baseballlover6363

    2 months ago

    And rynes like this….

    Reply
  59. bryan c

    2 months ago

    Wow. Ok Texas, best of luck with 5 years. Steve Cohen took his fan cap off and I’m proud. I hope he does well and going to Texas softens the blow here.

    Rodon or JV a must now.

    Reply
    • Dorothy_Mantooth

      2 months ago

      Texas will sign Rodon too. They are going for it and need one more ace to be competitive.

      Reply
      • Samuel

        2 months ago

        Dorothy_Mantooth;

        Did you like all of Artie Moreno’s signings with the Angels when he did the same thing?

        Reply
  60. mookiesboy

    2 months ago

    Never to be heard from again

    Reply
  61. AgeeHarrelsonJones

    2 months ago

    This is good news for the Mets. Longtime Met fan here. Loved Jake’s work but did not want him around. Too brittle. Hope he exceeds expectations with the Rangers. And wears a Rangers hat in Cooperstown!

    Reply
    • Lone Rangers

      2 months ago

      When he gets to Cooperstown it will be in blue and orange

      Reply
      • Yankee Clipper

        2 months ago

        When he goes to the bank it will be red/white/blue & in Texas!

        Reply
        • Lone Rangers

          2 months ago

          Nice

      • TJT88

        2 months ago

        Slow your role pal

        Reply
    • MarlinsFanBase

      2 months ago

      And @AgeeHarrelsonJones with the expected, typical Mets fan comment when they lose a player.

      Reply
  62. Mets6986??

    2 months ago

    I think they Mets announce a pitcher or two in the next coming days. I don’t think Degrom signs unless the Mets didn’t have ducks in a row to replace him.

    Reply
    • MarlinsFanBase

      2 months ago

      Mets an organization that has their ducks in a row. Ha, good one!

      Reply
      • The Insider

        2 months ago

        I feel like anyone posting should add to the conversation or be funny.

        Reply
        • MarlinsFanBase

          2 months ago

          He was funny. You think he wasn’t in that completely outlandish statement of the Mets having their ducks in a row?

  63. greenbaygiants

    2 months ago

    32.2 IP, 18H, 8R, 7ER, 6BB, 46K
    His avg line over the next 5 years

    Reply
    • whyhayzee

      2 months ago

      Yes, but that’s just the postseason.

      Reply
  64. YourDreamGM

    2 months ago

    The best pitcher in baseball. If he stays healthy it’s a good contract. Would you pay him this much betting on him to stay healthy? Seems risky to me.

    Reply
  65. rememberthecoop

    2 months ago

    That is a ridiculously risky signing by the Rangers! 5 years for a guy with his injury history is insane. But they got their guy. I would rather have Verlander for 2 or even 3 years. But I’m not the Rangers GM.

    Reply
  66. Yanks2

    2 months ago

    deGrom deserves Strasburg money at the very minimum. He got fleeced

    Reply
    • Yankee Clipper

      2 months ago

      Yeah, certainly the best pitcher in the league when healthy. But, he received the highest AAV of any pitcher (until Verlander signs now…lol) to this point *if he remains healthy*.

      Reply
      • Dr2022

        2 months ago

        And as usual clip, the Yankees will do nothing while all the pieces fall off the board, their excuse being there waiting on Aaron Judge. Course this gives them an excuse to let every other free agent go. And then go after the garbage basement leftovers.
        Of course the reality is, there is no reason why this should be, the Yankees can afford to sign judge and any of the free agent that they wish. They have a rough idea of what they will pay Aaron Judge, there’s no reason why they have to wait to sign other free agents that are available. They just choose not to.
        Steinbrenners ledger and the self-imposed salary cap is all.

        Reply
        • Yankee Clipper

          2 months ago

          I know, it’s painful brother. Other teams are waiting on decisions too, but they’re still moving ahead. Well, we know it’s just a convenient excuse but Hal knows he’s not well liked right now for these cost-savings measures.

          They’ve put winning second to investing in outside ventures and the fans are tired; it’s the same song and dance.

          Still lots of time left but I won’t hold my breath!

        • Yanks2

          2 months ago

          They would have to pay tons of luxury tax if they had another big free agent to pay in addition to Judge Cole and Stanton

    • Smacky

      2 months ago

      He got $2m more per year that Strasburg and the money isn’t deferred for like 20 years out.

      Reply
  67. Ld57

    2 months ago

    Thank you oil and gas industry!

    Reply
  68. jmaggio76

    2 months ago

    all that talk about he’s commanding $40m+ a year! holy crap they read that wrong! he wanted the years! $31m a year, what he was making already. what an embarrassment!!! Mets read this wrong and deserved this loss!!

    Reply
    • Smacky

      2 months ago

      He got $37m per.

      Reply
      • jmaggio76

        2 months ago

        i always said I sucked at math lol. regardless, still less than expected

        Reply
    • Ella B

      2 months ago

      $185 million/5=37 million per year. The option is also for $37 million. AAV less but guarantees $55 million, more than Scherzer’s contract and includes the option which could push the total value to $92 million over Scherzer. Mets were never going 5 years.

      Reply
  69. norcalblue

    2 months ago

    Stupid money now flowing. Cohen will wet himself over this deGrom deal and then give Rodon 5 years too at whatever price it takes.

    Reply
  70. FanOfAllTeams

    2 months ago

    Texas has money to spend. Semien+Seager=500 million+222=722 million at the most including Degrom’s option.

    Reply
  71. julyn82001

    2 months ago

    deGrom is good the money too…

    Reply
  72. Edp007

    2 months ago

    I repeat. In Texas we go big or we go home. Hi Aaron.

    Reply
    • !NolanGorman16!

      2 months ago

      Yes, you go home, when the playoffs begin.

      Reply
      • jjd002

        2 months ago

        Or drive 3.5 hours south to watch their daddy play in October.

        Reply
  73. warnbeeb

    2 months ago

    Bet he doesn’t make 100 starts over those 5 years.

    Reply
  74. HalosHeavenJJ

    2 months ago

    Wow. Big risk/reward signing right there.

    Here’s to hoping Verlander goes to the Mets. Having both them in the division would be brutal.

    Reply
  75. James Midway

    2 months ago

    Wow good on him for getting that money. When healthy he is worth every penny. The question becomes, how many games does he pitch?

    Reply
  76. TradeAcunaResignSwanson

    2 months ago

    Oh well. At least he is no longer a Met.

    Reply
  77. jvent

    2 months ago

    Now the Mets better hurry up and sign Rodon and Senga tonight

    Reply
    • slider32

      2 months ago

      I wouldn’t count on Rondon, he only took a zoom call!

      Reply
  78. rememberthecoop

    2 months ago

    If I’m Verlander or Rodon now, I’m raising my price cuz you absolutely know that the Mets are going to get at lest one of them.

    Reply
  79. Jordan613

    2 months ago

    Can we now please move on from degrom and get a few pitchers that’ll pitch more then a few weeks. That is a lot of money for such a risk.

    Reply
  80. Winslow Leach

    2 months ago

    As Jim Morrison of the Doors once said. “ The West is the Best”

    Reply
    • Edp007

      2 months ago

      Or as the greatest Rock n roll band ever ( Zeppelin) live album of their Los Angeles concert tour “ How the West was won”

      Reply
      • Dogs

        2 months ago

        Or as the Worlds Greatest Band Ever (Pink Floyd) once sang, “Money”

        Reply
        • Yankee Clipper

          2 months ago

          Probably left his wife Comfortably Numb though, huh!

        • Dogs

          2 months ago

          Good One

  81. Edp007

    2 months ago

    Angels saying to themselves. . How we ever gonna get outta 4th place , answer spend some real dough

    Reply
    • Winslow Leach

      2 months ago

      It’s only December 2nd

      Reply
  82. toptimrubies

    2 months ago

    congrats to Rangers fans!

    Reply
  83. CardsFan77

    2 months ago

    Can we officially add the Rangers to the list of “we’re just gonna buy a team” geez… doesn’t ever work… DeGrom is dominant no doubt but he will he hurt by May… 5 years is an eternity for a 35 year old pitcher that punches his IL ticket every year more than most people change underwear.. just my opinion

    Reply
    • Diggydugler

      2 months ago

      The Rangers COULD have bought a contender if they spent the money more wisely.

      Reply
    • Mr_KLC

      2 months ago

      Well, this might stop people from talking about the 3 years that Abreu got now. Verlander will definitely get the 3 years he wants now.

      Reply
  84. fitted54

    2 months ago

    Hope he doesn’t go on the DL from signing that contract

    Reply
  85. Darth Nihilus

    2 months ago

    Are they crazy?

    Reply
  86. Smacky

    2 months ago

    Barves fans thank you Texas! #LOLMets

    Reply
    • Marinararivera

      2 months ago

      I’m a braves fan. This is not a lolmets move. They dodged a bullet not giving Degrom that kind of deal.

      Reply
      • bryan c

        2 months ago

        Thank you for being realistic. So sad when someone has no clue

        Reply
        • Smacky

          2 months ago

          You must be new here.

    • padnastikador

      2 months ago

      I’m also a Huge Barves fan. Go Barves!!!

      Reply
      • claude raymond

        2 months ago

        loaves is to loaf as calves is to calf as Barves is to ???? Sorry couldn’t help myself. It’s padnas’ fault

        Reply
  87. konalawrence

    2 months ago

    I wouldn’t be celebrating if I were a Ranger fan. Way too risky.

    Reply
  88. 10centBeerNight

    2 months ago

    NYM fans will be glad in long run. They will sign 2 winning SP with that $. And a much needed impact bat to keep pace with PHI and ATL

    Reply
    • PinstripedPride

      2 months ago

      True. They still haven’t re-signed either of Bassett or Walker. They have three spots to fill.

      Reply
    • ChuckyNJ

      2 months ago

      They already blew the FA budget giving all that stupid money to Edwin Diaz and his trumpet fanfare.
      LOLmets endures.

      Reply
      • fred-3

        2 months ago

        The Mets have no budget

        Reply
      • Ella B

        2 months ago

        “…blew the FA budget…”?!? You’re a funny dude Chucky

        Reply
    • VonPurpleHayes

      2 months ago

      I cannot fathom the Mets being able to afford 2 top-line SPs and a huge bat without going waaaay over the tax again. But hey, Cohen is nuts.

      Reply
  89. HiredGun23

    2 months ago

    Verlander to the Dodgers still or do the Mets pony up and snag JV? Am I the only one that’s not sold on Rodon? His numbers certainly warrant big money but he just doesn’t seem like a true #1…

    Reply
    • Dr2022

      2 months ago

      Ha ha. He must be drinking from the Aaron Boone Kool-Aid, a dude who is always wrong also. Makes a call about a player, and the next day the players traded.

      Reply
    • snowyphile1

      2 months ago

      He throws 100 pitches in five innings.

      Reply
  90. VonPurpleHayes

    2 months ago

    Ron Darling is officially always wrong. At least he calls himself out on it, but this dude literally just guaranteed deGrom would stay in Queens and the next day he’s gone.

    Reply
  91. Dogs

    2 months ago

    Next the Rangers will sign Rodon or Syndergaard or both.

    Reply
  92. Mystery Team

    2 months ago

    This is what happens when as an organization you can’t draft and develop pitching. Texas trying hard to buy a title they’re just spending it on the wrong guys. It doesn’t help when you don’t have the horses in your system to trade for the younger healthier arms.

    Reply
    • oldredgunslinger

      2 months ago

      Texas’ farm system is loaded. Ranked 3rd or 4th by almost all the experts.

      Reply
  93. DannyQ3913

    2 months ago

    Have fun with that one

    Reply
  94. !NolanGorman16!

    2 months ago

    Obviously winning means nothing to Jakey.

    Reply
    • Camden453

      2 months ago

      He’ll fit right in with all their other mediocre process players

      Reply
    • VonPurpleHayes

      2 months ago

      The Mets play in a division with the Braves. Really the Rangers have as much as a chance as winning as the Mets. deGrom was on a division winning team once in his career. Mets made the playoffs 3 times, with 1 being an amazing run losing in the WS. That’s great, but it’s not unfathomable to imagine the Rangers can do the same in the next 5 years.

      Reply
  95. Milwaukee-2208

    2 months ago

    Over or under a total of 14 starts in 5 years?

    Reply
    • Berkner

      2 months ago

      Over………..I’ll go with 15 starts in 5 years.

      Reply
  96. John Bird

    2 months ago

    JV to Dodgers, Rodon to Cubs, Senga to Mets.

    Reply
    • stroh

      2 months ago

      I think JV goes to Mets, Rodon to Dodgers or Yanks

      Reply
    • avenger65

      2 months ago

      Rodon to the cubs? If it happens, it would ironic that the pitcher crosstown rivals wsox developed and then let go, would sign with the Sox’ biggest rivals now that he has become

      Reply
    • avenger65

      2 months ago

      Rodon to the cubs? If it happens, it would ironic that the pitcher crosstown rivals wsox developed and then let go, would sign with the Sox’ biggest rivals now that he has become one of the game’s top pitchers.

      Reply
  97. Scott Kliesen

    2 months ago

    Didn’t see this coming. The team or length of deal.

    Unfortunately I see it as a replay of the time Rangers signed Nolan Ryan at twilight of his career. Mainly good to great pitching, but team never was quite good enough to unseat the top team in the division.

    Reply
  98. !NolanGorman16!

    2 months ago

    You called it. You go home…when the playoffs begin.

    Reply
  99. Indianfan

    2 months ago

    Totally stupid. How many games did the 34-year-old deGrom start last year? (11) I rest my case.

    Reply
  100. PinstripedPride

    2 months ago

    Mike Puma tweeted that the Mets never got to make a final offer to deGrom. Ouch.

    Reply
    • Samuel

      2 months ago

      Something wrong with the Mets or NYC……

      Most here talk about going to play where the money is. Steven Cohen buys the Mets. Radically overpays Lindor. Buys a bunch of free agents….and what happens? The core group of developed Mets players don’t want to play there anymore.

      Am watching the Yankees next to see if it’s NYC players want to stay out of.

      Think it’s Boston as well. Who wants to play in a pressurized fishbowl when they can go to a decent city with fans that understand the sport of baseball.

      Reply
      • Ma4170

        2 months ago

        You think it’s something about the team culture then? Almost a feeling that we’re moving on from the old core, so they don’t feel as valued? Wouldn’t be unheard of…

        Reply
        • Samuel

          2 months ago

          Ma4170;

          No, I don’t think that’s it at all.

          Thor and Conforto seemed to have started the run.

          I don’t think many of them were wild about Lindor or Cohen. Plus the media nonsense is out of hand, along with the way the front running fans treat not just them, but their families. It’s unreal. I think they realized they can get the money elsewhere.

          Playing for the Red Sox in Boston is the same situation.

        • Ma4170

          2 months ago

          Tough market. And I really did not like the Lindor signing at the time and don’t love him for the team, though I’ll admit he had a very good year last year. I still don’t see him as close to worth that money.

    • flamingbagofpoop

      2 months ago

      That’s good. Save them from doing something stupid.

      Reply
  101. Smacky

    2 months ago

    Amazing how everyone hates deGrom now and is soooooooo glad their team didn’t sign him.

    Reply
    • Snuffy

      2 months ago

      The 5 years is nuts, but good for him.

      Reply
    • Assdribble_Cabrera

      2 months ago

      I did not read one comment where someone said they hated deGrom.

      Reply
    • Assdribble_Cabrera

      2 months ago

      I makes no sense to do that now.

      Reply
    • flamingbagofpoop

      2 months ago

      It’s not degrom most people are hating on, it’s the ludicrous contract. I’ll give you there are a few in here that seem to be bitter that he left, but I think most people just see this as an incredibly risky contract that they’re happy their team didn’t make.

      Reply
      • Smacky

        2 months ago

        They’ve been going on and on about having the “richest owner in sports” and how they were resigning deGrom and adding Rodón, Judge and an all new bullpen and now all of sudden they’re fiscally conservatives?

        Reply
  102. theknuckler

    2 months ago

    When players leave the Mets for other clubs they suddenly become better than anyone had hoped

    If deGrom had stayed with the Mets
    He would have been perennially injured
    and would have never reached his full potential.

    Now he will become Nolan Ryan and pitch the next 5 years injury free win multiple WS rings and go in to the HOF as a Texas Ranger.

    This is the way…

    Reply
    • Ella B

      2 months ago

      Knuckle, ain’t that the truth, from Ryan to Murphy. I was lucky enough to see deGrom multiple times so it’s going to suck not seeing him pitch. I hope he stays healthy and gives Rangers fans years of enjoyment. At least he’s out of the NL.

      Reply
  103. TJT88

    2 months ago

    Lifelong Mets fan here….is it April fools or something?

    Reply
  104. Dr2022

    2 months ago

    You’ve got that right my friend. Maybe Cashman will surprise us, and pick up some good free agents other than Aaron judge. But like you said, I would not hold my breath either.

    Reply
  105. bigjonliljon

    2 months ago

    Just goes to show, there’s a sucker born every minute. In this case, the Rangers front office

    Reply
    • Samuel

      2 months ago

      bigjonliljon;

      The 2 most desperate FO’s / ownerships this offseason are the Rangers and Giants.

      Scott Boras has made his corporation a billion dollars primarily living off those people. Other agents have learned from him.

      Reply
      • Berkner

        2 months ago

        “All I need is one dumb owner”

        -Scott Boras

        Reply
        • Samuel

          2 months ago

          Berkner;

          Desperate. Desperate Owner / FO.

          He’s always found them. When possible he pits them against one another.

  106. ThonolansGhost

    2 months ago

    185M for a soon to be 35 year old pitcher with 84 career wins… Yikes! I know he’s great when healthy, but he’s never healthy. This is insane.

    Reply
    • ThonolansGhost

      2 months ago

      Correction: 82 wins.

      Reply
    • hopper15

      2 months ago

      Who still pays attention to a starting pitcher’s win loss record. That’s completely outdated.

      Reply
      • ThonolansGhost

        2 months ago

        In this case, it means that he has about 200 career starts. That’s not very many for a guy who turns 35 next year. He’s made of glass and can’t stay healthy. Also, he’s getting HOF money and he is definitely not a HOFer.

        Reply
      • Astros Hot Takes

        2 months ago

        I’ll tell you who does – every starting pitcher in mlb. Wins, anyway.

        Reply
        • hopper15

          2 months ago

          Every starting pitcher? That’s a pretty big exaggeration.

  107. guest678

    2 months ago

    MLB trade rumors predicted a $45mm AAV. Only $10mm a year off. Pretty close.

    Reply
  108. a761506

    2 months ago

    I can only wish, here in Michigan, the Tigers would some day sign the best hitter or pitcher in the league.

    Reply
  109. southi

    2 months ago

    Wow, just wow. Five years?

    Reply
  110. randy g

    2 months ago

    So now
    They finish in fourth instead
    Of fifth. They still suck. The Detroit loins of mlb

    Reply
  111. DodgerOK

    2 months ago

    They will regret it.

    Reply
  112. blueblood1217

    2 months ago

    Verlander to the Mets now

    Reply
  113. futuregm12

    2 months ago

    All that to finish in 4th place again

    Reply
  114. Mario93

    2 months ago

    Where does this take the current rangers payroll?

    Reply
    • Berkner

      2 months ago

      177 million

      Reply
    • Yankee Clipper

      2 months ago

      If you are referring to the luxury tax assessed payroll number it is just over $192MM with this signing, per Fangraphs, from Roster Resource.

      Reply
  115. Camden453

    2 months ago

    Good riddance to deGrom. Guy is terrible. On a Rangers team with losing prospects going nowhere

    34 and he has 82 career wins

    Reply
    • RJNarvick

      2 months ago

      He’s not terrible. He’s excellent when right. He’s also had ucl and shoulder trouble in the last two years. Not worth the risk in my opinion.

      Reply
    • Ella B

      2 months ago

      You don’t watch a lot of baseball, do you Cam?

      Reply
  116. dannibalcorpse

    2 months ago

    Happy for Jake, get that money, also happy that the Mets aren’t the ones giving him 5 years. Pivot to Verlander or Rodon, maybe kick the tires on a Jameson Taillon or Chris Bassitt, bring back Brandon, keep rebuilding the bullpen. Team won 101 games without Jake for 2/3 of the year so they can do it again I’m sure

    Reply
    • VonPurpleHayes

      2 months ago

      Reasonable take

      Reply
  117. R.D.

    2 months ago

    DeGrom/Perez/Gray/Leiter plays in a playoff series. Only takes one truly good year of Degrom to make this deal worth it.

    Reply
    • kidnova

      2 months ago

      I wouldn’t go that far. They need probably 3 all-star level years to truly make it worth that contract.

      Reply
    • baseballteam

      2 months ago

      No it actually takes five years at this price.

      Reply
    • A'sfaninUK

      2 months ago

      Nah, it really doesnt play but it will get you into the postseason.

      But deGrom/Perez/Cueto/Gray/Odorizzi does. Go get Johnny.

      Reply
    • flamingbagofpoop

      2 months ago

      Jack Leiter has 0 innings of MLB experience. Might be a little early to pencil him in as someone that, “plays”, in a playoff series. Unless by that you mean he literally just gets playing time because the rangers don’t have any other options.

      Reply
  118. dopt

    2 months ago

    Who is next?

    Reply
  119. neurogame

    2 months ago

    This was probably not the scenario Max Scherzer had in mind, anchoring a rotation in his late 30s where there is now a significant drop off after him.

    Reply
    • Ella B

      2 months ago

      I don’t think Max is worrying about getting quality pen mates. The Mets will be busy the next few days at the winter meetings, spending Cohen’s billions. Give it a week, at most.

      Reply
    • put it in the books

      2 months ago

      deGrom made 11 starts. And the off-season isn’t over.

      Reply
  120. LGM1979

    2 months ago

    Excuse me, I have a jersey I need to burn.

    Reply
    • Lone Rangers

      2 months ago

      That’s funny cause I’m buying a bunch of discount stuff right now

      Reply
    • VonPurpleHayes

      2 months ago

      I’m only half-kidding, but there should be some kind of jersey exchange program…we need to create an app for this service.

      Reply
  121. ArianaGrandSlam

    2 months ago

    Wow! Guys! Rangers just bought the most expensive Ferrari that sure looks fast but it’s got no gas!

    Reply
    • Samuel

      2 months ago

      ArianaGrandSlam;

      No mention here of Mike Maddox coming on as pitching coach.

      Can he help keep deGrom healthy?

      Reply
  122. TradeAcunaResignSwanson

    2 months ago

    The Rangers can have 5 deGrom’s and yet still finish in 3rd place at best.

    Reply
  123. Plugnplay

    2 months ago

    Y’all are worried about the 5th year? How about the 1st year?

    Reply
  124. LGM1979

    2 months ago

    As a Mets fan my heart is broken but my common sense says good riddance.

    Reply
    • Ella B

      2 months ago

      Good riddance?!? Dude was a stud for the Mets and helped to turn the organization around. Appreciate what you had and maybe look forward to the possibilities that this may open.

      Reply
  125. Tastes Like Chicken

    2 months ago

    How many games will deGrom pitch this next season? Answer, not enough. Need to have home starts to fill up seats at Arlington’s Costco stadium.

    Reply
    • Gwynning

      2 months ago

      I was going to let the pic and name go unmentioned… and then you stole my Costco nickname for that field! Argh!!! Lol

      Reply
      • Tastes Like Chicken

        2 months ago

        Birds of a feather, flock together. Sir you have good taste in mascots. The fans behind home plate at Arlington are very annoying during the game broadcasts. Most look like shoppers at Costco sitting around eating their cheap fast food.

        Reply
        • Gwynning

          2 months ago

          Free samples! Cheers amigo *mug tap*

  126. Ignorant Son-of-a-b

    2 months ago

    Lord have mercy. You know, there comes a point where you really need to question the financial intelligence of these billionaire owners. Just because one is a billionaire doesn’t automatically mean one is also financially astute or even that they know how to put their pants on one leg at a time. Man really SMH right now

    Reply
  127. Roper

    2 months ago

    Nice job Chris Young! Now let’s go get Tallion to round out the staff!

    Reply
  128. LFGMets (Metsin7)

    2 months ago

    I put that he would return to the Mets but I really felt strongly that he would go to the Rangers. My darkhorse pick paid off

    Reply
  129. D-Lew

    2 months ago

    New York takes it out of you … Anything and everything to get out of that city. Pompous righteousness – let’s go Kurt Russell.

    Reply
  130. DarkSide830

    2 months ago

    All of this to maybe make .500 this season.

    Reply
    • VonPurpleHayes

      2 months ago

      No guarantee of anything in a tough NLE either.

      Reply
      • Plugnplay

        2 months ago

        Looks like the AL West is going to be insanely tough. Good thing you get a breather with the A’s now. Jeez!

        Reply
  131. slider32

    2 months ago

    No time to stop now, Rangers need to go after players like Nimmo, Benintendi, and JD Martinez, if they can land two of them they will be contenders! Either that or trade for an upgrade in the outfield.

    Reply
  132. clubber_lang84

    2 months ago

    Man these guys are going to pay a bunch of money for 3rd place in the division.

    Reply