MLB Rumors: Favorite to trade for Justin Verlander emerges and it’s not the Astros

The Astros have been linked to a Justin Verlander reunion but the Dodgers look like the most attractive option for a trade if the Mets trade.

Since the Mets sent Max Scherzer to the Rangers, rumors have surrounded the fate of Justin Verlander.

The pitcher opened the door to a possible trade with comments to reporters while rivals have reportedly made calls gauging a potential trade.

All the while, the Astros stood out as a likely suitor if the Mets want to do a deal. Verlander spent four-and-a-half seasons in Houston, experiencing wild success including two World Series triumphs.

However, on Sunday, general manager Dana Brown told reporters the Astros aren’t in the market for starting pitching, per KHOU 11.

Interest in pursuing Verlander may not have mattered in the end for Houston. A different trade partner was already likely to eclipse them, according to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic.

Dodgers look like the most desirable trade partner for Justin Verlander

“The Dodgers, because of the depth of their farm system, are a more desirable trading partner for the Mets than Verlander’s previous club, the Astros,” Rosenthal wrote on Sunday night.

The trouble is figuring out if Verlander is interested in heading to Los Angeles. It’s well-established that he’s not exactly looking to leave New York and his no-trade clause gives him the power to dictate where he lands.

Plus Verlander said he’d be more open to a trade if the Mets weren’t committed to winning a World Series next year. We still don’t know if New York will decide a trade is in their best interest.

That’s where the Dodgers farm system comes in. Someone would have to offer an attractive prospect or two to entice the Mets to make the move and LA might be able to make that offer.

The MLB trade deadline closes at 6:00 p.m. ET on Tuesday, Aug. 1. The Mets, Dodgers and even Astros have until then to figure this all out.