Will the New York Mets trade Max Scherzer?
Unthinkable just a few weeks ago, recent reports suggest the Mets may be open to a Max Scherzer trade. And one team stands out as a likely partner.
The Midsummer Classic has traditionally been the cutoff date for MLB seasons. Before, anything is possible for any team. But when the All Star break is over, there are teams who have to dig deep and others who have to face reality.
The undeniable reality that is staring the Texas Rangers in the face is that they simply cannot afford to wait any longer. They have to trade for a relief pitcher.
There are, of course, quite a few arms around the league to choose from. The White Sox’s Lucas Giolito perhaps stands out as the best, although Josh Hader could be had from the Padres as well. But those are just the head of a pack of solid relievers around the league that could be traded this year.
One interesting development has leapt to the forefront, however, and that is the recent reports that Max Scherzer could be open to a trade for the right team.
This opens up as many questions as answers, including what the Mets think about that position, but one thing is crystal clear. If a trade is going to be done for Max Scherzer, it will have to be a blockbuster deal. And of the teams who need pitching right now and are also willing to pay big money? Just one.
The Texas Rangers.
Yes, the Astros and Diamondbacks could use a hand too, as could any number of other teams, but none have a need so acute nor are so manifestly willing to dig deep as the Texas Rangers.
With their recent slide in defense laying bare their need for help on the mound, the Rangers have a history of punching way above their weight in trades. They have recently gone on record as stating that they are willing to pay whatever it takes to bring a title to Arlington.
The only question that remains is whether or not the Mets will be willing to let go of one half of their marquee signings designed to bring that same title to Flushing Meadows. Even if they have written off this season, and there is no reason to think that they have, surely they will want to compete next year and Scherzer should be part of those plans.
All of the smart money says that Scherzer stays where he is, but his comments at least open the possibility that he could be open to the idea of moving. Everything would have to align in a way that is almost unthinkable for it to happen, but if it should, then Texas could be as right a team as any he could hope for.