The New York Mets will have several big decisions to make once the Aug. 3 trade deadline rolls around. They're currently 26-34, 14 games behind the National League East-leading Atlanta Braves and six games back from a wild card spot.
With the highest active payroll ($334.5 million) in MLB, the Mets entered the 2026 season with high expectations of being a World Series contender. However, with their chances of nabbing a postseason spot becoming increasingly unlikely, New York could be a seller when the deadline rolls around.
In an article for MLB.com, Mark Feinsand writes that starting pitcher Freddy Peralta would be one of the first pieces the Mets move on from.
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"A turnaround could prompt Stearns to be a buyer, though the more likely scenario would be standing pat, allowing the returning players to serve as midseason reinforcements," Feinsand wrote. "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."
New York acquired Peralta this past offseason via a trade with the Milwaukee Brewers. In his 12 starts, he has made an impact. The two-time All-Star has recorded 66 innings, a 3.55 ERA, a 114 ERA+ and a 1.303 WHIP.
With an opponent slash line of .229/.310/.379, he has been one of the Mets' top pieces in the starting rotation. However, it hasn't been enough to make them postseason contenders. The 29-year-old is also set to become a free agent after the season.
New York already has four contracts that exceed $125 million, and may not be looking to hand out another. FanSided's Chris Landers projected that Peralta could earn a five-year, $140 million deal.
While the Mets may not be interested in a fire sale when the deadline rolls around, Peralta could give them a handful of valuable capital if they fall further out of contention.
