Sean Manaea's stock has risen dramatically over the past year, and now he has reportedly cashed in on that success by signing a three-year contract worth $75 million with the New York Mets. This news, confirmed by sources, follows substantial reports from ESPN and the New York Post. The deal is subject to a physical examination.

Interestingly, the deal includes deferred payments amounting to $23.25 million, which will be doled out in equal installments over ten years from 2035 to 2044. This kind of financial arrangement has become a common practice for teams to manage their payroll and ensures Manaea will be compensated in the long run.

As Manaea approaches his 33rd birthday in February, he is entering free agency in a much more advantageous position compared to the past two years. During those seasons, Manaea accepted two-year contracts with opt-out clauses, but after proving himself as a solid pitcher last season, he is now seen as a possible No. 2 starter. He was placed at No. 12 on The Athletic’s Free Agent Big Board, and with estimates suggesting he could have fetched a four-year deal worth $76 million, the Mets secured a valuable asset while favoring a shorter contract length.

The Mets are optimistic about their rotation lineup, which has undergone some noteworthy changes recently. Sean Manaea's return adds crucial depth, joining the ranks of other anticipated starters like Kodai Senga, David Peterson, and fresh talent such as Clay Holmes and Frankie Montas. The team is gearing up for a six-man rotation, indicating a strategy focused on durability and performance.

In a pivotal 2024 season, Manaea transformed into a different pitcher, improving his velocity and diversifying his pitch mix. He developed a sweeper and sinker early on, and during the All-Star break, he took inspiration from Chris Sale’s mechanics, leading to remarkable results that saw him topping the league in innings pitched, posting an impressive ERA just above 3.00.

Manaea’s statistics are equally impressive: across 32 starts, he amassed 181 2/3 innings with a 3.47 ERA and an extraordinary 1.08 WHIP, solidifying his place as the Mets' most reliable starter. He previously opted out of a $13.5 million guarantee for 2025 and rejected a qualifying offer of $21.05 million from the Mets, showcasing his belief in his ability to perform at a higher level.

While questions regarding Manaea's age and sustainability linger, his performance metrics indicate that his success is no mere coincidence. His adaptability and athleticism suggest he can continue to evolve as a pitcher, making this investment for the Mets potentially a game-changer.

The Mets' fanbase can breathe a sigh of relief as their pitching staff strengthens with this acquisition. Sean Manaea's return marks not only an immediate benefit for the upcoming season but also instills excitement about the team's trajectory in the years to come. Stay tuned, as this deal could turn the tides for the Mets in their quest for a championship!