The New York Mets are actively searching for ways to strengthen their starting rotation following injuries to Sean Manaea and Frankie Montas. A proposed trade could land them an ace-caliber pitcher in Sonny Gray, providing a much-needed boost.
Proposed Trade: Mets & Cardinals
MLB analyst Zach Pressnell of FanSided has suggested a significant move in which the Mets would acquire Gray from the St. Louis Cardinals in exchange for two top prospects.
Once finalized, this trade would be a major acquisition for New York, as Gray could immediately step in as the team’s ace. The three-time All-Star is currently in the second year of a three-year, $75 million contract, which includes a $30 million club option for 2027. In 2024, he posted a 13-9 record with a 3.84 ERA over 38 games for the Cardinals.
In return, St. Louis would receive two promising prospects. McLean, ranked as the Mets’ fifth-best prospect, is a 23-year-old right-hander who was drafted in the third round of the 2023 MLB Draft. Last season, he split time between High-A and Double-A, finishing with a 3.78 ERA and a 4-10 record in 25 starts.
Gilbert, the Mets’ 11th-ranked prospect, is a talented outfielder who could be on the verge of a major league call-up. Originally a first-round pick by the Astros in 2022, Gilbert was part of the Justin Verlander trade before joining New York. In Triple-A last season, he hit .205 with 10 home runs and 33 RBIs.
Mets receive:
- Sonny Gray (RHP)
Cardinals receive:
- Nolan McLean (RHP/INF)
- Drew Gilbert (OF)
Analyst Calls Trade a Win-Win
Pressnell views this trade as beneficial for both sides. The Mets would gain a reliable frontline starter, while St. Louis would unload Gray’s contract and acquire two high-upside prospects.
“The Mets would acquire the starter they need while retaining most of their top prospects with a clear path to the majors. St. Louis would be unloading salary and gaining two talented players to replace Gray. It’s a win-win for both teams,” Pressnell wrote.
The Mets are expected to pursue trade options to improve their rotation, and Gray appears to be a natural fit for their staff.
Mets Name Clay Holmes Opening Day Starter
In other news, the Mets have officially named Clay Holmes as their Opening Day starter for the 2025 season.
Holmes, who signed a three-year, $38 million contract with the Mets during the offseason, is transitioning from a reliever to a starter. After an impressive spring training, Mets manager Carlos Mendoza awarded him the role.
“He earned it,” Mendoza said. “We like what we’re seeing. I know it’s a small sample size here, but it’s really encouraging. He really put himself in a great position. Showed up here early in camp, was ahead of everyone. But more than that, we’re comfortable with how he’s looked so far making that transition. And, we’re confident in him for Opening Day… He’s worked really hard. Proud of him.”
The Mets will open their 2025 season on the road against the Houston Astros on March 27.
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