City rivals, New York Yankees and New York Mets, have had an aggressive off-season. Both cash-loaded teams flexed their muscles and did not hesitate to spend big bucks on building a stronger bullpen. The rivalry of the neighbors goes a long way back to the 90s. Moreover, the fans have seen many on-field altercations between the players in the past.
For the Yankees, it is a matter of pride as they have been awaiting a Word Series title for 13 years now. The Mets, on the other hand, are struggling to even get to the ALCS. Hence, both teams intend to fight out hard in the upcoming MLB season. Meanwhile, as the bullpens are set for most teams for the 2023 season, MLB analysts did an in-depth analysis of the city rivals’ rosters and gave their final verdict.
Who’s Roster Is Better, The Yankees Or The Mets?
The Mets are owned by Steve Cohen, one of the richest businessmen around the block. On the other hand, the Yankees are owned by Hal Steinbrenner, who is no less than his rival. Hence, both teams enter the off-season with a killer instinct. For instance, let’s talk about the current off-season itself. The Yanks spent $522 million alone on just two players, Aaron Judge and Carlos Rodon. Whereas the Mets acquired Justin Verlander on a two-year deal worth $86.7 million.
However, MLB analyst, Randy Miller feels the Yankees’ roster depth is far better than the Mets. The reason is the average age of the Yanks roster. The Yanks have a young brigade compared to the Mets. For the Mets, Justin and their star player Max Scherzer are both above 38 years of age. Hence, Randy feels Justin and Max are a real risk in the long run and less effective because of their age. Moreover, the duo is likely to break down toward the postseason.
“I like the Yankees’ rotation better because I think Verlander and Scherzer are both real risks,” says Randy Miller.
Bronx Bombers Plans To Build A Strong Offense
The New York Yankees, after missing out on the World Series title in the last season, entered the off-season with the intent to build a strong offense. For that, they acquired 30-year-old pitcher Carlos Rodon in a stellar deal. The southpaw is a perfect starter behind the Yank’s veteran pitcher, Gerrit Cole. Moreover, the Yankees offered all the arbitration-eligible players one-year contracts. Hence, the Bomber, at the very moment, has one of the most robust pitching lines up in the MLB.
In 2022, Houston Astros knocked out the Yankees in the ALCS. The Yanks lost due to injury concerns and a weak offense, leading to the team’s collapse. However, the Yankee front office has tried its best to change the picture this time and build a strong roster for the 2023 season. However, injuries have started to creep in already as their 5th pitcher, Frankie Montas, is down with a shoulder injury.
