sportingnews
The New York Mets are expected to be sellers at the 2026 MLB trade deadline, with several intriguing players potentially changing uniforms this summer. However, the biggest question surrounds starting pitcher Freddy Peralta, who is likely to be dealt but has struggled this season, casting doubt on his trade value.
According to ESPN's Jeff Passan, the Mets' "best asset" is not Peralta but $26 million right-hander Clay Holmes, currently on the injured list. Passan wrote, "Best asset: Clay Holmes, SP," noting that "the desire for starting pitching at the top end of the market is real (Tampa Bay, Atlanta, both Chicago teams, Arizona, Milwaukee, Philadelphia) and between Clay Holmes and Freddy Peralta, the Mets have two of the most desirable starters."
While Peralta still holds value and could attract interest based on his 2.70 ERA from last season, Holmes is considered the superior trade chip. Despite his injury, teams prefer Holmes because he will have a fresh arm for the playoff push. Holmes boasts a 2.39 ERA this season and holds a 2027 player option he is likely to decline, making him a rental.
Key Analysis
Holmes's 1.9 bWAR in just nine starts far outpaces Peralta's -0.2 bWAR in 22 starts, highlighting the gap in production. Peralta has posted a 4.99 ERA this season, while Holmes has been dominant. Teams are more optimistic about Holmes even with the injury, viewing him as a reasonably priced rental who could also shift to the bullpen in October. He represents an ideal rotation upgrade without requiring a blockbuster trade package.
Originally reported by sportingnews.