Freddy Peralta’s removal from the Mets’ starting rotation on Friday suggests the right-hander may have pitched his final game for the team as trade discussions intensify ahead of Monday’s MLB deadline. Initially slated to start the second game of a four-game series against the Miami Marlins, Peralta was replaced by Kodai Senga in a move described by interim manager Andy Green as a careful decision to protect the player amid ongoing negotiations.
Peralta’s performance since joining the Mets from the Milwaukee Brewers in January has been underwhelming. The 5-9 right-hander holds a 4.99 ERA and a 4.46 FIP, ranking him among the league’s weakest qualified starters this season. Despite remaining healthy, his decline has sparked debate among analysts, with some questioning whether organizational factors have contributed to his struggles. The Mets, however, are reportedly holding out for a high return, seeking a package featuring a top-100 prospect, driven in part by a limited market for starting pitching as several teams position for postseason contention.
In addition to Peralta, relief pitcher Clay Holmes, who remains on the injured list but aims to pitch Sunday, is also expected to be moved before the deadline. The Mets have not confirmed plans to use Holmes ahead of a potential trade, but sources indicate interest from the Tampa Bay Rays and Chicago Cubs. Holmes could represent one of the club’s most valuable assets in upcoming deals.
The Mets’ bullpen is also undergoing reshaping, with left-handed reliever A.J. Minter traded to the Minnesota Twins late Thursday. Veteran left-hander Brooks Raley, known as the team’s clubhouse leader and “dad” figure, is expected to be moved as well. Since joining the Mets in 2022, Raley has posted a 2.33 ERA and a 10-8 record, though he missed the 2024 playoff run following elbow surgery. While he expressed enthusiasm about a possible postseason opportunity elsewhere, Raley also reflected fondly on his time in New York.
On the field, Kodai Senga’s start Friday was brief, lasting four innings before faltering in the fifth with four runs scored by the Marlins. Senga was charged with three earned runs on two hits, walking two and striking out four. The Mets’ offense was stifled by Marlins starter Janson Junk, who allowed just one unearned run over five innings. Francisco Lindor contributed a solo home run in the seventh, but New York ultimately fell 5-2 at Citi Field.
As the trade deadline rapidly approaches, the Mets appear poised to make significant changes to their pitching staff, reshaping the roster as they balance competitive goals and asset management.