Bret Saberhagen joined the Mets in December 1991 through a blockbuster trade with the Kansas City Royals, trading Bill Pecota for Kevin McReynolds, Gregg Jefferies, and Keith Miller. With two American League Cy Young awards and a World Series MVP, he was brought in to be a co-ace with Dwight Gooden.
During the shortened 1994 strike season, Saberhagen delivered a remarkable display of pitching efficiency. Despite a hitter-friendly environment, he posted an impressive 14-4 record with a stellar 2.74 ERA. His control was nearly unmatched; he led the National League by walking only 1.04 batters per nine innings and established a major league record with an 11.00 strikeout-to-walk ratio, striking out 143 batters while issuing just 13 walks. This performance far surpassed the control metrics of his Cy Young-winning seasons in Kansas City, earning him an All-Star spot and finishing third in the NL Cy Young voting.
In July 1995, as the Mets were out of playoff contention and aimed to reduce payroll to focus on developing youth, the front office traded the veteran pitcher to the Colorado Rockies for two prospects.
As a Met, Saberhagen posted a record of 29-21 with a 3.16 ERA.
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