Mets and Perez agree on 3 year deal

February 2, 5:01 PMNY Fantasy Sports ExaminerLee Forman

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AP Photo/Seth Wenig, File 

Last week the Yankees put the finishing touches on their off-season when they came to terms with pitcher Andy Pettitte.  Today the Mets crossed the finish line by reaching an agreement with pitcher Oliver Perez on a 3 year contract worth a reported $36 million.  Once Perez passes a physical the move puts a stamp on the Mets off-season acquisitions.

Much like his career, Perez had his ups-and-downs last season.  He finished the season at 10-7 with a 4.22 ERA, and 1.40 WHIP.  Perez posted strong numbers in the strikeout department (180 K in 193 IP), good enough for 12th in the league.  Unfortunately he was more effective at issuing free passes.  Perez led the National League with 105 walks last season.

As long as the team can help Oliver with his control his ceiling is high.  His ability to rack up the strikeouts makes him more valuable for fantasy than most 3rd starters in baseball.  He’s still only 27 years-old and has room to grow.  The Mets now have a strong bullpen and won’t be forced to over-extend the southpaw like they did last season.  If Perez can lower his ratios he could be a fantasy asset.  Use a late round flier on him and wait to see if the control improves.

Perez’s signing effectively ends whatever slim chances Pedro Martinez had of returning to the Mets.  Johan Santana, Mike Pelfrey, and John Maine are givens for the rotation.  That leaves Jonathon Niese, Freddy Garcia, and Tim Redding to compete for the 5th and final spot in the rotation.