Mets Rookie Wants Tarik Skubal Despite Uncertain Rotation Future

The New York Mets have several promising young pitchers competing for spots in their 2027 rotation, but one of those pitchers would welcome even more competition.

Rookie left-hander Zac Thornton would welcome two-time American League Cy Young Award winner Tarik Skubal to New York, even though Thornton hasn't been guaranteed a starting job next season.

Thornton discussed the possibility in a New York Post interview published Tuesday.

The 24-year-old is particularly interested in learning from another elite left-hander.

"It would be awesome to bounce ideas, especially coming from another left-handed pitcher," Thornton said.

Thornton also revealed that teammate Nolan McLean had spoken with Skubal while the two were together with Team USA during the World Baseball Classic.

The Mets are expected to pursue starting pitching this offseason after finishing 74-88 and missing the playoffs for the second consecutive year.

President of baseball operations David Stearns has acknowledged the need to strengthen the rotation, although he hasn't committed to pursuing an ace.

As Roundtable previously reported, signing Skubal could prove complicated by the enormous contract he is expected to command and uncertainty surrounding baseball's next collective bargaining agreement.

Thornton, however, appears more interested in the opportunity to learn from Skubal than the potential consequences for his own role.

The rookie posted a 3.42 ERA in 15 starts this season, establishing himself as one of New York's more encouraging young pitchers.

But manager Andy Green has not guaranteed him a rotation spot for 2027.

Thornton understands why.

"I think there's always somebody coming for your job, coming from below," Thornton told the Post.

That competition extends beyond a potential Skubal signing.

McLean emerged as the Mets' most reliable starter this season, finishing with a 3.16 ERA and 194 strikeouts in 179 2/3 innings.

Christian Scott returned from Tommy John surgery to post a 3.85 ERA in 23 starts, while Jonah Tong recorded a 3.92 ERA in four September starts.

Those young pitchers will be competing for opportunities alongside veterans such as Sean Manaea and Kodai Senga.

The competition has already created questions about how New York will handle its pitching staff next season.

Thornton nevertheless believes the Mets' young pitchers have developed a strong bond through their shared offseason training and experiences in the organization.

He praised McLean's ability to command his pitches, Scott's dedication to rebuilding his body after surgery, and Tong's maturity during a difficult season.

Their development has given New York reasons for optimism following another disappointing year.

The Mets also have additional pitching prospects moving through their system, potentially creating even more competition for rotation spots.

Thornton knows competition is part of establishing himself in the major leagues. And if the Mets add Skubal, he would welcome the opportunity to learn from one of baseball's best pitchers.