The New York Mets have reportedly traded for Milwaukee Brewers ace Freddy Peralta. While Peralta is a free agent at the end of this season, he should come at a lower price tag than Tarik Skubal, who has won back-to-back AL Cy Young awards. Peralta gives the Mets what they were desperately lacking in a true ace. However, he will not come cheap. Following along live for more updates.
What did the Mets give up for Freddy Peralta?
The Mets reportedly sent a package of prospects, including Brandon Sproat and Jett Williams, in exchange for Peralta. Williams is the No. 30-ranked prospect in baseball, per MLB Pipeline. He can play shortstop, second base or the outfield, though it's unclear what position he'll choose at the MLB level.
Peralta was always going to be expensive, but the Mets sent two top-5 prospects for his services. Starting pitching, especially Cy Young candidates, are never cheap, even if they are on the final year of their contracts.
Sproat has started just four MLB games and has a career 4.79 ERA. Williams is projected to make the majors in 2026. He's the Mets third-ranked prospect and had an .828 OPS in Double-A and Triple-A last season.
What does Freddy Peralta bring to the New York Mets? Expert take
FanSided MLB Insider Robert Murray noted that the Mets acquiring Peralta was a coup, especially after such a slow start to their offseason.
"Peralta would be a massive addition for the Mets if this gets done. It gives them another frontline starter and after a winter of inactivity, adding Bo Bichette, Luis Robert Jr.and Freddy Peralta in less than a week is a massive coup for the organization.And it further bolsters their chances of not only winning the National League East, but possibly dethroning the Los Angeles Dodgers," Murray said.