As the August 1st MLB trade deadline approaches, the New York Mets find themselves in a very unexpected position to say the least.
With a horribly disappointing and lackluster season thus far, the team is looking to reevaluate its roster and potentially make some significant changes before the deadline passes.
Initially seen as strong contenders in the National League, the Mets have struggled to find their footing and currently sit in fourth place in the NL East with a 47-53 record.
As a result, it is highly likely that they will become sellers in the trade market, looking to offload some veterans in exchange for prospects and to lower their sky-high payroll.
While it is improbable that the Mets will part ways with star pitchers Max Scherzer or Justin Verlander, The Athletic suggests that the team is willing to deal some key players, including relief pitchers David Robertson and Brooks Raley, as well as starting pitcher Carlos Carrasco.
The Athletic’s Jim Bowden commented on the potential trades, stating: “Robertson and Raley have significant trade value at the deadline because they are two of the better relievers who could get traded.”
“Robertson has posted a 2.08 ERA in 39 appearances and converted 14 of 17 save opportunities. Raley, a lefty, has a 2.08 ERA in 42 appearances, although he’s not a left-handed specialist as he’s gotten out righty hitters more frequently than lefty hitters this season. Righties are hitting .164 against him, while lefties are hitting .254.”
Considering their strong performances this season, Robertson and Raley are attracting interest from other teams. Bowden believes Robertson could bring back two mid-level prospects, while Raley is expected to fetch at least one.
Carlos Carrasco, on the other hand, hasn’t had the best season. At 36 years old, he carries a 5.82 ERA in 14 starts and is currently experiencing his lowest strikeout rate in a decade. However, he still provides value with his ability to pitch at least four innings per start.
Bowden speculated: “Perhaps a team that needs a fifth or sixth starter might take a chance on him if the Mets pay most of his $14 million salary and accept a fringe player and a non-prospect type back.”
Given that Robertson and Carrasco are set to be free agents at the end of the season, and Raley’s value as a controllable asset until 2025, it seems likely that the Mets will pursue deals to secure prospects and build for the future.
Of course, the Mets are technically still alive for a Wild Card spot, as they currently sit seven games back with plenty of season left.
If you were Steve Cohen and the Mets, would you trade these pitchers?
How about Verlander and Scherzer?
Or would you keep the band together and try to make a serious run at the postseason?