The New York Mets made a blockbuster offseason move by trading top prospects Jett Williams and Brandon Sproat to the Milwaukee Brewers to acquire ace Freddy Peralta, but the deal has come under scrutiny as the team has stumbled to an MLB-worst 11–21 start.
Peralta, who is under contract through 2026 and was not extended, is now viewed as one of the Mets’ most valuable potential trade chips if the season continues to unravel ahead of the August deadline.
MLB insider Mark Feinsand noted that some executives already see him as a possible major deadline name due to his team’s struggles and pending free-agent status.
So far this season, Peralta has posted a 1–3 record with a 3.52 ERA, 1.20 WHIP, and 42 strikeouts across 38.1 innings, though his limited pitch depth—rarely going deep into games—has been a concern.
That said, his 2024 campaign showed his ace-level ability, finishing 17–6 with a 2.70 ERA and 204 strikeouts over 176.2 innings.
The Mets paid a steep price for what could end up being a short stint with Peralta, but there remains a chance they either extend him or recoup talent by trading him if they fall out of contention.
Extension talks are considered unlikely midseason, especially with Peralta reportedly seeking a long-term deal in the 7–8 year range.
President of baseball operations David Stearns, who previously signed Peralta to a team-friendly extension during their Milwaukee days, now faces a difficult decision about his future in New York.
Beyond Peralta, other potential trade candidates include starter Clay Holmes, who has a player option after 2026, and reliever Brooks Raley, both of whom could draw interest from contenders if the Mets become sellers at the deadline.
