Mets could target Braves veteran ace to bolster rotation for 2025

The New York Mets have been a surprise contender this year. Following an 87-loss season in 2023 and a fire sale at that year's trade deadline, New York has bounced back quite nicely.

They may be in a position to spend big again in 2025, and they could certainly stand to bolster their starting rotation and add somebody to go next to Kodai Senga.

Tim Kelly of Bleacher Report suggested that they could be in the running for left-hander Max Fried.

"Among the teams that could make sense as suitors are the Yankees, Orioles, Astros, Cubs, Mets, and Dodgers," Kelly wrote.

If Fried were to sign with the Mets, then New York would not only significantly bolster their starting rotation, but also put a dagger in the hearts of the Atlanta Braves.

Plucking the Braves ace away from them would stoke the fires of the rivalry between the two sides and possibly even cause a paradigm shift in the National League East. It would also signal that the Mets and owner Steve Cohen fully intend to compete in 2025.

The Mets are currently 69-64 and sit four games back in the Wild Card race. The third spot is currently held by the Braves.

A rotation with Senga and Fried at the top would be tough to face in a postseason series, and it would give the Mets a great chance to take steps towards respectability.

Fried's market will certainly be competitive, but it would not be a surprise to see the Mets make an attempt to sign one of the most sought-after starters on the free agent market. Cohen has the financial resources to make it happen, and the Braves have not made any progress towards an extension with the 30-year-old left-hander.

More MLB: Orioles could target Braves ace to bolster rotation for 2025