Mets Target Joe Ryan to Anchor Rotation After Semien Trade

The New York Mets made headlines on November 24 by trading outfielder Brandon Nimmo to the Texas Rangers for Gold Glove second baseman Marcus Semien. The move addressed defensive needs, saved approximately $30 million, and brought in a proven leader to anchor the infield.

While Semien strengthens the roster, it simultaneously exposed gaps, particularly in the outfield and starting rotation. With Nimmo gone and no frontline starter added, the Mets must act quickly to maintain competitiveness in a stacked National League East.

Rotation depth appears solid on paper, featuring Sean Manaea, Clay Holmes, David Peterson, and the injury-prone Kodai Senga. Young arms Nolan McLean, Jonah Tong, and Brandon Sproat also showed promise in 2025. Yet the absence of a true ace contributed to the team’s second-half collapse last season.

All signs point to Minnesota Twins right-hander Joe Ryan as the solution. His combination of elite strikeout ability, command, and cost-controlled contract makes him an ideal target for a Mets team looking to solidify the rotation immediately.

1. Joe Ryan’s Profile and Value

Joe Ryan, 29, earned his first All-Star selection in 2025, posting a 3.42 ERA and 1.03 WHIP over a career-high 171 innings. His 10.2 strikeouts per nine innings and precise command distinguish him as one of baseball’s most desirable arms available via trade. Ryan remains under team control for two more seasons, with a projected 2026 salary of $5.8 million—far below the escalating market for top-tier starters, where contracts can exceed $400 million. This cost-efficiency adds to his appeal for contending teams like the Mets. The Twins have signaled openness to rebuilding after trading stars Carlos Correa, Jhoan Duran, and Griffin Jax at the 2025 deadline. Ryan was nearly dealt to Boston, illustrating Minnesota’s willingness to move their ace for the right package of prospects. Securing Ryan would provide New York with a true frontline starter capable of stabilizing the rotation, preventing collapses, and matching up against elite opponents in the postseason.

2. Proposed Trade Package

The Mets could propose sending SS Jett Williams, 3B Jacob Reimer, and LHP Jonathan Santucci to acquire Ryan. Williams, the Mets’ No. 3 prospect, impressed in Double-A and Triple-A in 2025 with a .261/.363/.828 slash, 17 home runs, and 34 stolen bases, showcasing five-tool potential. Williams’ defensive versatility—capable of playing shortstop, second base, and outfield—enhances his value as a centerpiece for a rebuilding team. Jacob Reimer adds high-upside infield depth, while Santucci provides a left-handed pitching arm that aligns with Minnesota’s long-term plans. This package offers the Twins a combination of elite prospects with immediate upside, exceeding reported trade requirements for Ryan while giving the Mets a controllable ace for two critical seasons. Timing favors the Mets, as Semien and Francisco Lindor’s presence creates an infield logjam, making the inclusion of a premium prospect like Williams more feasible. Additional depth is available through Luisangel Acuña, Ronny Mauricio, and outfield prospect Carson Benge.

3. Strategic Impact for the Mets

Acquiring Ryan would instantly upgrade the Mets’ rotation, providing a reliable ace capable of anchoring the staff in high-pressure situations. Paired with Semien’s defensive upgrades, New York would significantly enhance its run prevention metrics. The addition also positions the Mets to compete with elite teams in the NL East, offering a balanced roster that combines young talent, veteran leadership, and controllable stars. Ryan’s cost-controlled contract allows flexibility to address other roster needs without compromising payroll. Beyond immediate performance, this trade signals a willingness by President of Baseball Operations David Stearns and owner Steve Cohen to make aggressive, calculated moves to accelerate contention. It demonstrates the franchise’s commitment to winning in 2026 rather than relying solely on development. With Ryan atop the rotation and Semien stabilizing the infield, the Mets would enter the season with a championship-caliber roster, capable of competing deep into October.