Zack Wheeler is believed to be the starting pitcher the New York Mets are most likely to trade, but apparently the team has considered one scenario where they give Wheeler a new contract and trade Noah Syndergaard instead.
According to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, the Mets are exploring the possibility of trading Syndergaard before July 31 and signing Wheeler to a long-term contract extension.
An option #Mets are exploring, per sources: Trading Syndergaard and signing Wheeler to an extension. NYM would benefit from return for Syndergaard while keeping Wheeler, a quality starting pitcher who otherwise would depart in free agency. @TheAthleticMLB
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) July 25, 2019
Numerous reports have indicated the Mets are unlikely to trade Syndergaard, who is still just 26 and under team control through 2021. However, SNY’s Andy Martino said Thursday that the Mets only consider three players to be off-limits, and Syndergaard isn’t one of them.
Let’s save some time. If your name is not deGrom Alonso or McNeil the Mets will listen on you. Long way between listening and trading obv
— Andy Martino (@martinonyc) July 25, 2019
Trading Syndergaard would be a tough sell with the fans, especially just months after new general manager Brodie Van Wagenen said he is committed to trying to win now. However, the Mets could obviously get a massive haul in return for the right-hander, whereas Wheeler’s trade value may be shot after he went on the injured list recently with shoulder fatigue.
Syndergaard, who is having a down year with a 7-5 record and 4.33 ERA, recently gave a hint that he is unhappy with the way things are going in New York. Perhaps he is seeking a trade, which could also influence the Mets’ decision.
Wheeler, 29, is 6-6 with a 4.69 ERA this season. He’s set to become a free agent this season, but signing him would be a lot cheaper than giving Syndergaard the extension he is seeking.
