Mets $8.1 million pitcher named as 'ideal' trade option for clubs around MLB

The 2026 season hasn't gone to plan for the New York Mets, and they're very much a club that could trade away a few players by the August 3 trade deadline.

While they might be able to turn things around, the Mets should still at least keep the door open to a few trades, sending players away. One of those potential trades involves $8.1 million pitcher David Peterson.

Mark Feinsand of MLB.com named Peterson as a potential change-of-scenery trade candidate who would be an "ideal" trade pickup for many teams around MLB looking for some rotation depth this summer.

Mets' David Peterson is 'ideal' trade target for MLB clubs

"The left-hander posted a 2.90 ERA in 21 starts in 2024, then made his first All-Star team last season, but with free agency only months away, his lack of a clear role could make him an ideal trade option for clubs seeking mid-to-back-end rotation help," Feinsand writes.

With the Mets potentially acting as sellers at this year's trade deadline, seeing Peterson on the move would be a very sensible decision from the front office.

The 30-year-old has struggled a bit this season, posting a 5.18 ERA in 13 games and seven starts, across 57.1 innings of work.

MORE: Mets projected to still sell at trade deadline by ex-MLB GM

His inconsistent role makes Peterson an expendable player for the Mets, even if they're not totally out of the postseason hunt by the trade deadline.

Since his role on the club has diminished, it would make sense for the Mets to give him a change of scenery, bring back a little something in a trade, and move forward with different pitchers in the rotation and coming out of the bullpen.

Feinsand named Peterson as someone who could use a change of scenery, and with his shaky role and the Mets' struggles this season, a trade of the $8.1 million veteran this summer would not be a surprise whatsoever.

More MLB news:

• 5 reasons to believe in Jordan Walker's breakout for Cardinals
• Tarik Skubal being traded by Tigers would help him in free agency
• Cubs’ cost to trade for Tarik Skubal from Tigers revealed by ex-MLB GM
• Yankees’ Ryan McMahon problem has a $25 million release solution
• Phillies extending Cristopher Sanchez to his $107 million deal was genius