Mets’ trade plans start with Freddy Peralta originally appeared on The Sporting News.
Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The New York Mets didn’t expect the season to go anything like this.
When they traded for ace Freddy Peralta as part of a busy offseason, it was meant to lead the Mets toward the top of the NL East.
Instead, they’re struggling, and if those struggles don’t turn around, Peralta could be the first to go.
The Mets traded for the righty from the Brewers knowing that this was a contract year for him. At the time, there was probably some belief that they’d sign him to a contract extension if the fit felt right.
But as the calendar enters June, the Mets haven’t signed Peralta to a new deal, and it could make him a prime trade candidate.
Given expectations and payroll, the Mets will surely wait as long as possible before making any moves. But if things don’t turn around, look out.
“If the Mets continue to falter and fall further back in the race, they could look to move whatever pieces they can, starting with ace Freddy Peralta, who is headed for free agency after the season,” MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand wrote in a new article on Tuesday.
MORE: MLB had four walk-off home runs in the same night
The Mets gave up high-quality prospect value for what was only guaranteed to be one season of Peralta.
A team getting Peralta for half a season would still be expected to give up some legitimate potential, but likely less than the Mets originally sent to Milwaukee for the right-hander.
New York may also speak to Peralta about an extension before it gets to that point. He wouldn’t be a bad guy to have around for future seasons.
Regardless, it’s a bad sign for the Mets that this is even a talking point right now. This season certainly hasn’t gone according to plan.
More MLB news:
- Bo Bichette reveals his plans for his opt-out clause
- Bumpus Jones is trending for an 1892 accomplishment
- The last time a team was this bad at walking, it took 9 balls to earn a walk
- Chase Burns makes Reds history that hasn’t been done in 104 years
- Guardians pitcher trying to complete incredible comeback