Luis Severino, the former Mets pitcher, recently shared that he was willing to take a pay cut to stay with the team last winter. Despite his efforts, the Mets did not include him in their plans, leading him to sign a three-year, $67 million contract with the Oakland Athletics.
Severino revealed that he was open to a two-year deal worth $40 million to remain in New York. He expressed his desire to continue with the Mets after a successful season where he posted a 3.91 ERA in 31 starts. "I was trying to stay with the Mets," Severino said. "I actually asked for less money to stay there. But I was not in their plans."
The Mets reportedly offered him a two-year contract valued at $34 million, similar to what Frankie Montas received. Severino felt this offer was unfair, especially after he had turned down a qualifying offer of $21.05 million from the Mets.
Severino’s health was a key factor in his desire to remain with the team. After struggling with injuries during his time with the Yankees, he found a supportive environment with the Mets. He praised the trainers and the overall atmosphere, saying, “Everything was good, so I was trying to sacrifice more money to stay in a place where I know I can get better.”
As he prepares to face his former team, Severino reflects on his time with the Mets and the decisions that led him to Oakland. He seems optimistic about his new chapter with the Athletics, where he is set to start in their series finale against the San Diego Padres.
In other Mets news, Jeff McNeil is beginning a minor league rehab assignment with Low-A St. Lucie, and Francisco Alvarez is also progressing in his recovery from surgery. Both players are expected to move up to Triple-A Syracuse soon as they work towards returning to the major league roster.