The New York Mets made headlines this offseason by signing outfielder Juan Soto to the largest contract in professional sports history. While the move undoubtedly bolsters their lineup, World Series champion AJ Pierzynski has voiced concerns over the team's pitching staff heading into the season.

Pierzynski, speaking on OutKick’s "Don’t @ Me with Dan Dakich," didn’t hold back when addressing what he sees as a glaring issue. "I think Soto will have a significant impact because of the bat he brings and the at-bats, the mindset he has. The only thing I question about the Mets is who’s going to pitch? Who’s going to be their starting pitcher?" he remarked.

Injuries to key players have left the Mets scrambling for stability on the mound. Sean Manaea, who recently re-signed with the team, is sidelined with a right oblique strain until at least April. Frankie Montas, a major free-agent acquisition, is also out for an extended period due to a high-grade right lat strain. Adding to the uncertainty, Kodai Senga is recovering from multiple injuries that limited him to just one regular-season game last year.

Clay Holmes, who joined the Mets after a strong tenure as a high-leverage reliever with the New York Yankees, is transitioning back to a starting role. However, with only four career starts under his belt across seven seasons, the question of durability looms large. Senga, who might have been the ideal opening-day starter, is being handled cautiously due to his prior shoulder, triceps, and calf issues.

Pierzynski didn’t mince words about the importance of a strong pitching rotation. "At the end of the day, if you want to win in Major League Baseball, I don’t care—you can rake all you want—but if you don’t have the pitching to back it up, you’re not going to win over the long haul and in the playoffs," he emphasized.

Despite the pitching concerns, Pierzynski expressed optimism about the Mets' offensive lineup. "I think their lineup is going to be unbelievable. They brought back Pete Alonso, who I love, Francisco Lindor obviously, and I think Mark Vientos is going to be a stud for them in the everyday lineup. We saw what he could do in the postseason," he noted.

Holmes will make his debut as a Mets starter in their season opener against the Houston Astros on Thursday at 4:10 p.m. ET. Mets fans will be watching closely to see if their restructured pitching staff can hold up.

Sports Analysis News

World Series Champion Raises Key Concern About Mets' Pitching Ahead of New Season