Mets Eye Major Trades Ahead of MLB Deadline: Key Players on the Block

As the New York Mets navigate a dismal 2026 season, the team is poised to be significant sellers ahead of Major League Baseball’s trade deadline on August 3. Despite boasting the highest payroll in the league, the Mets find themselves languishing in last place in the NL East. However, they possess a collection of high-caliber players who could be enticing to other teams looking to bolster their rosters.

Among the most notable names on the trading block are starting pitchers Freddy Peralta and Clay Holmes, alongside relievers Luke Weaver and Brooks Raley. Additionally, Luis Robert Jr., who was acquired in an offseason trade, is also a potential candidate for a move. Although the former top prospect has faced injury challenges this season, his name continues to circulate in trade discussions.

While franchise shortstop Francisco Lindor is unlikely to be dealt during this trading period, the Mets may reconsider his future this winter as owner Steve Cohen’s franchise looks to retool. The following is an overview of key players the Mets could trade.

Freddy Peralta, the Mets’ prized offseason acquisition, was recently scratched from his scheduled start as the team anticipates a possible deal. After being traded from the Brewers following a strong 2025 campaign that saw him finish fifth in the NL Cy Young voting, Peralta has encountered difficulties in New York. He currently holds a record of 5-9 with a 4.99 ERA in 22 starts. Given his previous success, including a 17-6 record and a 2.80 ERA last season, he could command the best return among the Mets’ trade candidates.

Clay Holmes is set to return from a broken leg and is expected to attract interest from contenders looking for a budget-friendly alternative to other high-profile pitchers like Tarik Skubal or Peralta. “It’s easy to get caught up in a lot of what-ifs, a lot of stories that may or may not be true,” Holmes remarked after a recent rehab outing. “You just really have to focus on what you can do.”

Luis Robert Jr., acquired during the offseason, has struggled to stay healthy throughout his career, and 2026 has been no different. Despite hitting 38 home runs in 2023, the 28-year-old’s injury history could make him a low-risk trade option for teams willing to take a chance—provided they don’t expect him to be an everyday player. With a $2 million buyout on his $20 million option for 2027, the Mets may need to include cash in any potential deal.

Brooks Raley, arguably one of the best relievers available at the deadline, has been a standout performer this season. The 32-year-old right-hander boasts a 1.88 ERA across 43 innings and is signed through 2028, making him an appealing target for teams seeking bullpen reinforcements.

Luke Weaver, another bright spot in the Mets’ otherwise challenging campaign, has excelled as a 38-year-old southpaw, registering a 2.01 ERA in 44 appearances while limiting left-handed hitters to a .560 OPS. New York could potentially secure a prospect or two for Weaver, whose skills are always in demand.

Lastly, the Mets’ acquisition of Marcus Semien, a 35-year-old due $72 million over the next three years, has proven problematic. Coming off two seasons with a sub-.700 OPS, unloading Semien’s contract could be challenging, especially if the Mets are required to absorb a significant portion of his salary.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.