After missing the first month of the season with a shoulder injury sustained near the end of spring training and taking a bit to get acclimated to new surroundings, the New York Mets are finally enjoying the best version of Justin Verlander in recent outings.
There is a problem, though: Verlander is a veteran starter who remains good, and the Mets aren’t a top-tier team like we used to think.
They are actually clinging to hopes of making the postseason via the last Wild Card spot and have a very disappointing 47-53 record.
The fact that Verlander’s season ERA is now down to 3.24 in 89 innings after he dominated the New York Yankees for six innings on Tuesday actually makes him an attractive trade piece for pitching-needy contenders.
What does the pitcher think about this?
Well, he has implied that his preference would be to remain with the Mets.
Additionally, according to the New York Post’s Mike Puma, he hasn’t been approached with any ideas regarding a future out of the city.
“Verlander, who holds a no-trade clause, says Billy Eppler has not approached him with any proposals,” Puma tweeted.
Verlander, who holds a no-trade clause, says Billy Eppler has not approached him with any proposals.
— Mike Puma (@NYPost_Mets) July 26, 2023
The important detail to keep in mind here is that Verlander, who signed a two-year, $86.6 million deal (with a vesting option for a third year) in the offseason, has a no-trade clause.
Perhaps if he likes the city, the team, and the entire situation, he would be willing to void the clause and approve a deal.
If he doesn’t, however, it is his right to veto any deal.
It will be an evolving situation, so sit tight and pay attention to how it all unfolds.
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