The New York Mets are still attempting to salvage their season and are coming off a month of May where they posted a 16-13 record. However, with the club still below .500, there are already swirling MLB rumors about an All-Star at Citi Field whom other clubs covet.
MLB insider Robbert Murray reported that while New York isn’t anywhere close to considering being sellers at the MLB trade deadline, clubs around the league are eyeing starting pitcher Freddy Peralta.
Related: Inside the New York Mets’ Early Season Struggles
- Freddy Peralta stats (FanGraphs): 3.55 ERA, 1.30 WHIP, 23.9% K-rate, 9.8% BB rate, .227 batting average allowed in 66 innings pitched
Peralta, who turns 30 years old this month, has dealt with bouts of inconsistency this season. He has allowed four-plus runs in three of 12 starts, but he does have a 3.25 ERA over his last 11 outings (61 innings).
For now, per Murray, Peralta has expressed a preference to remain with New York. However, getting traded this summer could benefit him long-term. That is because he would no longer be subject to receiving a qualifying offer, meaning he could hit MLB free agency without being attached to draft-pick compensation. That would widen his suitors this winter considerably.
- Freddy Peralta contract (Spotrac): $8 million salary
While Peralta wouldn’t be the most coveted pitcher available at the MLB trade deadline, with that being Tarik Skubal, he is a more cost-effective option. Any acquiring team would be on the hook for just half his salary this season and it would take less premium prospect capital to land him.
For clubs like the Chicago Cubs, San Diego Padres and Toronto Blue Jays, Peralta is an ideal target. He is a dependable playoff-caliber starting pitcher who would be a positive addition to a clubhouse and will not cost a premium to land. So, if the Mets decide to be sellers, a trade seems likely.