MLB trade rumors heading into July have suggested the New York Mets could take on salaries before the trade deadline to improve their roster. However, it appears another strategy could be exploring a Max Scherzer trade and moving off his contract.
New York entered the season with World Series expectations. After winning 101 games in 2022, the Mets’ offseason spending resulted in the highest payroll in MLB history. However, they approached the halfway point of the MLB schedule nearly 10 games below the .500 mark.
- Max Scherzer contract: $43.333 million salary (2023), $43.333M player option (2024)
Related: Highest-paid MLB players
While the results have prompted significant calls for changes, those have largely been tied to the coaching staff. Amid a growing push from outside the organization to part ways with manager Buck Showalter, now there appears to be a buz regarding Scherzer’s future in New York.
According to Anthony DiComo of MLB.com, league sources believe the three-time Cy Young Award winner is willing to waive his no-trade clause in the right situation.
Scherzer does have a no-trade clause and his contract would significantly lower his value. However, he’s nearing the end of his career and wants to compete for another World Series ring. If that isn’t a viable option in New York and owner Steve Cohen is willing to absorb part of Scherzer’s contract, it could raise the possibility of a deal.
- Max Scherzer stats (2023): 3.95 ERA, 1.17 WHIP, 26.2 percent strikeout rate in 70.2 IP
Scherzer has not pitched to his usual standard this season. Opponents are hitting .247 against him, the highest batting average against Scherzer in three years. In addition, his strikeout rate has dropped below 30 percent for the first time since 2014.
Part of the issue is his diminished velocity. After averaging 94.1 mph on his fastball, 85 mph on his slider and 89.3 mpg on his cutter in 2022, Scherzer’s averages have dipped to 93.5 mph, 83.7 mph and 88.4 mph this season.
Scherzer will be 39 years old before the MLB trade deadline and he has been better as of late, allowing just three earned runs over 14 innings in his last two starts. However, the Mets will finish with one of the worst records in June. If the slide continues next week, taking New York out of the MLB playoff picture, trade rumors surrounding Scherzer will ramp up.