Trevor Bauer choosing between Mets, Dodgers

It appears as if we are coming close to the finish line in the sweepstakes for free-agent starting pitcher Trevor Bauer. The New York Mets, who have already made a couple of splashes this offseason are reportedly the favorite to sign Bauer, per Jon Morosi of MLB.com.

MLB insider Ed Coleman of WFAN in New York reported that the deal is a three-year deal worth $90 million, which with an opt-out included after the first season. MLB Network reporter is hearing the Mets’ offer is close to $100 million.

While all signs point to the Mets landing the star pitcher, there’s another team in the mix — the Los Angeles Dodgers. Bauer’s agent, Rachel Luba tweeted on Thursday that there are two teams still in the running. According to Heyman, the Dodgers have the hometown advantage as Bauer is from North Hollywood, CA.

USA Today reporter Bob Nightengale reported Bauer and the Mets have a deal, but Bauer’s agent refuted that. We should probably know the verdict in the next 24 hours.

Wherever Bauer decides to go it will bolster the team’s starting rotation. If he goes to Los Angeles, Bauer will playing with Clayton Kershaw and Walker Buehler, which is not a bad 1-2-3 combination. It would also firmly solidify the Dodgers as NL West champs and put them in position to repeat.

But if he goes to New York, then that could put the Mets in the drivers’ seat for the NL East crown. As of now, the Mets starting rotation features Jacob deGrom, Marcus Stroman, Carlos Carrasco, and potentially Noah Syndergaard. When Bauer is added into the mix, it gives New York one of the best starting rotations in the majors. Last season with the Reds, Bauer posted a record of 5-4 with a career-best ERA of 1.79.