New York Mets face a pivotal offseason decision: chase ace Tarik Skubal with a record-setting contract or strengthen their rotation with Michael King and Clay Holmes. Could Skubal’s dominance elevate the Mets to true contender status, or is depth the smarter investment for a rotation in need of reliability? Ryan Finkelstein breaks down contract comparisons, payroll flexibility, and the Mets’ strategy for building around Francisco Lindor and Juan Soto. Key topics include AAV records, risks of long-term pitching deals, and how major league aces like Gerrit Cole and Zack Wheeler have shaped recent postseason runs. The discussion weighs the risks and rewards of superstar versus depth, the realities of free agency bidding wars with the Los Angeles Dodgers, and the pressure of maximizing the Mets’ current championship window. Which path gives New York the edge in 2027 and beyond? Episode Timestamps 00:00 Will Skubal get $400 million? 08:21 Michael King & Holmes Valuation 14:51 Sku...