As the July 31 trade deadline approaches, the Mets remain in a position where they have some pieces that other teams value. Some players, like Jose Bautista and Devin Mesoraco, might be moved for small packages. One player in particular, though, could be moved for a more significant package: Zack Wheeler.
John Ricco, one of the three-headed Mets GM monster, spoke very highly of Wheeler Friday afternoon.
“At the start of the year, we challenged Mickey Callaway and Dave Eiland to help some of your young pitchers turn the corner, Zack being one of them,” Ricco said. “As we sit here today, he’s turned into one of the better pitchers on our staff if not the league itself.”
The 28-year-old Wheeler is under team control for one more season. As the Mets have him, Steven Matz, Noah Syndergaard, and Jacob deGrom, they have the makings of a very strong 2019 rotation. On one hand, it is good to have that blueprint and not have to worry about the main starting rotation during the offseason. On the other hand, if the Mets could fetch a solid package for the righty, they might want to make something happen.
“When you have one year of control, you get to the point where you have to consider whether it’s better to keep him or maybe move him in a trade,” Ricco continued. “That’s where we’re at right now; Really excited about the development he’s shown under our new manager and coaches, but we also have to consider what’s best for the organization.”
We’ve gotten a lot of hits on him, not surprisingly with the way he’s pitching. At the end of the day, we’ll evaluate that over the next few days and see. We’re committed to looking at all ways to improve the organization.”
In 19 starts this season, Wheeler has gone 4-6 with a 4.33 ERA and strong 3.69 FIP. In 114.1 innings he has struck out 109, walked 41, and averaged a 1.303 WHIP. He has pitched far better since June began, as he’s lowered his ERA from the unsightly 5.40 mark he ended May with. He is without a doubt one of the best starting pitchers “available” on the trade market.
