Luis Severino Rejects Mets' Qualifying Offer

Luis Severino has decided to reject the New York Mets' one-year, $21.05 million qualifying offer, opting instead to test the free agency market in hopes of securing a multi-year contract. Despite a resurgent 2024 season with the Mets, where he posted a 3.91 ERA over 31 starts, the decision is seen as risky due to his injury history and the crowded free agency market for starting pitchers. The Mets will receive draft pick compensation if he signs elsewhere, while still keeping the door open to negotiate a new deal with him. Severino's improved performance included a reduced home run rate and increased ground ball percentage, which helped him rebuild his value. However, experts argue that accepting the offer might have been more prudent, ensuring a significant salary while proving his durability over another season. This move is part of a broader strategy by the Mets, who also extended qualifying offers to Pete Alonso and Sean Manaea, both expected to decline as well.