Right-handed pitcher Freddy Peralta has been scratched from his scheduled start against the Miami Marlins on Friday. Reports indicate that the decision comes as trade interest in Peralta has intensified ahead of Monday’s trade deadline.
Peralta was acquired by the Mets in the off-season from the Brewers and served as the team’s opening-day starter. This season, he has recorded a 4.99 earned run average (ERA) and a 1.478 WHIP over 22 starts. This marks a notable change from his performance in 2025, when he achieved a 2.70 ERA and 1.07 WHIP, earning him a fifth-place finish in National League Cy Young voting and his second All-Star selection.
Trade Market Activity
Peralta is considered a straightforward trade candidate due to his impending free agency and the Mets’ current position. The team, with a 47-63 record, has already begun making moves, including trading pitcher A.J. Minter to the Twins. The Mets are reportedly looking to acquire a Top 100 prospect in any deal involving Peralta.
While an extension or a qualifying offer (QO) were theoretical options, neither appears likely. Extension talks earlier in the spring stalled, with Peralta reportedly seeking an eight-year deal while the Mets preferred a shorter term. Given his performance this season, the Mets are believed to be less inclined to meet his previous asking price. As a luxury tax-paying team, the Mets would only receive a compensation pick after the fourth round if Peralta were to reject a QO and sign elsewhere.
Several clubs have been linked to the right-hander, including the Padres, Diamondbacks, Cubs, Brewers, Phillies, and Rays. Atlanta has also reportedly entered the mix, seeking a playoff-calibre starter, though an intra-division trade with the Mets could present complications.
Peralta’s Performance and Value
Peralta has pitched 113 2/3 innings this year, with his 4.99 ERA. His strikeout rate of 22.1%, walk rate of 9.4%, and ground ball rate of 40.9% are all considered average. Some metrics, such as his .313 batting average on balls in play and 68.4% strand rate, suggest some unluckiness this season. His FIP (4.46) and SIERA (4.31) indicate a slightly better underlying performance.
Despite his current season’s struggles, other clubs appear willing to consider his past performance. From 2021 to 2025, Peralta pitched 738 1/3 innings for Milwaukee with a 3.30 ERA and a 29.6% strikeout rate. His current salary of $8MM for this year, with approximately $2.5MM remaining to be paid, is also a factor that could make him an attractive trade target.
The Brewers, Peralta’s former team, are reportedly considering him as a backup option if they are unable to acquire Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal. One report suggests that if Peralta were to return to Milwaukee, where he had a 17-6 record with a 2.70 ERA in 2025, he could potentially serve as a strong postseason starter behind Jacob Misiorowski.
In addition to Peralta, the Mets are expected to trade other impending free agents, including Brooks Raley, Tyrone Taylor, Clay Holmes, and Luis Robert Jr. The team is reportedly focusing on acquiring prospects in their upcoming trades.
Source: mlbtraderumors.com
