​The New York Mets’ 2026 season is one that fans would like to forget about, so this winter’s trades and signings will be some of the most important in the team’s history. While there was not much to be happy about with New York’s roster last season, with the exception of rookie outfielders A.J. Ewing and Carson Benge, the Mets’ rotation was exceptionally bad. With a combined ERA of 4.47, the 23rd-worst among Major League Baseball clubs, the Mets have a glaring issue on the mound. Alternatively, New York’s bullpen had a 3.76 combined ERA which was good enough for the 10th-best among the rest of MLB.While there are holes all over the roster, general manager David Stearns needs to direct a good amount of attention toward the starting pitchers. Luckily, there are a plethora of starters set to reach free agency this winter. Here’s a list of three hurlers that Stearns could realistically land in free agency.Right-hander Kevin GausmanFresh off getting eliminated from the postseason by the San Diego Padres, Chicago Cubs’ righty Kevin Gausman may be looking to head to another contender. Although the Mets failed to reach the postseason in 2026, there’s undoubtedly plenty of talent on the roster to take the club to the promised land. Gausman was traded mid-season to the Cubs from the Toronto Blue Jays, where he had some of the best seasons of his 14-year career. A veteran with a career 3.87 ERA would be great for the Mets’ clubhouse, and if he can turn back the clock, the 35-year-old would be a great addition to New York’s rotation.Left-hander Shota ImanagaStaying on theme with the Cubs, lefty Shota Imanaga is entering free agency fresh off arguably the best season of his young career. The southpaw posted a 3.77 ERA with a 174-to-37 strikeout-to-walk ratio, .233 batting average against and a 1.10 WHIP in 174 1/3 innings pitched across 32 games this season. The 33-year-old was a staple of the Cubs rotation, helping them reach an 89-73 record and make the postseason. If Imanaga continues on the trajectory that he’s been on since entering the MLB in 2024, righty Nolan McLean could become one of the majors’ best one-two punches.Right-hander Michael KingSan Diego’s ace is in the middle of a playoff run, most recently throwing a gem en route to a sweep of the Cubs. The 31-year-old also has an opt-out clause in his contract after this season, which he very well could consider if the Padres’ postseason run comes up short yet again. If he does opt out, the Mets should be the first team to pick up the phone and give him a call. The righty had a 3.21 ERA with a 159-70 strikeout-to-walk ratio, .221 batting average against and a 1.18 WHIP in 185 innings pitched in the 2026 regular season. A lot would have to go in the Mets’ favor to even be in a position to sign King, but if he ends up a free agent, Stearns should add him to New York’s rotation.