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Astros Acquire Justin Verlander From Mets

By Steve Adams | August 1, 2023 at 11:29pm CDT

Justin Verlander is back in Houston. The Astros re-acquired the defending Cy Young winner and cash for outfield prospects Drew Gilbert and Ryan Clifford. Houston designated infielder Joe Perez for assignment in a corresponding 40-man move.

The Mets are paying a combined $35MM of Verlander’s 2023-24 salary. They’d pay half of his $35MM salary in 2025 if his option vests. In all, they’re paying as much as $52.5MM of the nearly $93MM that could still be paid out on his deal, pending that option.

Verlander, 40, was with the Astros from 2017-22 and departed as a free agent this offseason to sign for a record-tying annual value in Queens. His two-year, $86.666MM contract tied his former Tigers teammate Max Scherzer’s $43.333MM AAV on a three-year deal with the Mets, but the reunion between the two future Hall of Famers will only prove to last a few months before being spun into a rivalry. The Mets shipped Scherzer to the Rangers on Saturday and will now send Verlander to Texas’ top division rival.

The 2023 season began on a sour note for Verlander, who missed the first five weeks of the year after suffering a strained teres major near the end of spring training. He’s in the midst of yet another strong season, though his performance in 2023 isn’t to the same level as it was in 2022, when he stunned the baseball world by capturing his third Cy Young Award as a 39-year-old in his first season back from Tommy John surgery. Verlander logged a ridiculous 1.75 ERA with a 27.8% strikeout rate and 4.4% walk rate in 175 innings last season. He’s pitched to a 3.15 ERA with a 21% strikeout rate and 8% walk rate in 96 innings this year, and seen slight steps back in his average fastball (from 95.1 mph to 94.6mph), swinging-strike rate (11.6% to 10%) and opponents’ chase rate (36.9% to 35%).

That said, even if Verlander’s overall season numbers aren’t quite as dominant as in 2022, there’s little doubt that he’s a major upgrade to an Astros staff that has lost right-handers Lance McCullers Jr. and Luis Garcia for the season. Righty Cristian Javier also hit a wall recently and has been struggling, and the ’Stros lost right-hander Jose Urquidy for three months due to shoulder troubles. Verlander’s return will add one of the most talented arms of the entire generation back to the front of a staff, where he’ll join Cy Young candidate Framber Valdez, standout rookie Hunter Brown, Javier and rookie J.P. France. When Urquidy returns in the near future, it’s possible the Astros will go to a six-man rotation to help monitor the workloads of Brown and France.

For the Mets, Verlander becomes the fourth notable veteran they’ve shipped out in the past week, joining Scherzer, David Robertson and Mark Canha. The Mets have picked up a strong package of prospects in doing so but also waved a white flag on a season in which their $350MM+ payroll was expected to make them legitimate World Series contenders. They’ve also completely wiped out their rotation, which now consists of Jose Quintana (a trade candidate himself), Carlos Carrasco, Kodai Senga and David Peterson. Tylor Megill and Joey Lucchesi are candidates to step back into the starting staff.

The only near-term pitching prospect the Mets added in that slate of deals was righty Justin Jarvis, who came over from the Brewers and had been ranked near the back of their top 30 prospects on most publications. Given Carrasco’s status as a pending free agent and the unproven nature of Peterson, Megill and Lucchesi, they’ll head into the offseason with an enormous amount of work to do in rounding out the rotation. It’s a deep crop of free agents, headlined by names like Shohei Ohtani, Lucas Giolito, Aaron Nola, Blake Snell, Julio Urias, Sonny Gray, Jordan Montgomery, Marcus Stroman and NPB ace Yoshinobu Yamamoto. If the Mets plan to compete in 2024 — hardly a sure thing in the wake of their deadline activity — they’ll need to aggressively pursue rotation additions via either that free-agent market or the trade market.

The acquisition of Gilbert and Clifford could both help if the Mets choose the latter. While it’s certainly possible that both newly acquired outfielders fit into the long-term puzzle, that’s no sure thing — particularly for a team so willing to splash around in free agency. Brandon Nimmo is already signed for another seven years, so there are only two real long-term vacancies in the outfield anyhow.

Gilbert, 22, is the more advanced of the two prospects and the one who’s garnered more national fanfare. The Astros’ top pick in the 2022 draft, he’s already ascended to the Double-A level in his first full season of pro ball. The University of Tennessee standout laid waste to High-A pitching early in the season, slashing .360/.421/.686 in 95 plate appearances before an aggressive promotion to Double-A. He’s been a bit below average in terms of his overall output there, batting .241/.342/.371 in 264 plate appearances. However, Gilbert has also shown an advanced approach, walking in 12.5% of his Double-A plate appearances against a lower-than-average 17.5% strikeout rate.

MLB.com ranks Gilbert as the game’s No. 68 overall prospect, and FanGraphs has him at No. 49 on their list. Both reports give Gilbert a chance to be in the big leagues by next season, touting his plus speed, plus arm, great approach at the plate and growing power. He has a chance to stick in center field, perhaps pushing Nimmo to a corner if the veteran’s defense slips as he ages into his mid-30s. If not, Gilbert projects as a plus defender in an outfield corner. Both FanGraphs and MLB.com make note of his fiery personality, which could win over hometown fans while grating on opponents.

As for Clifford, he was taken ten rounds later in the same 2022 draft not for lack of talent but for a strong commitment to Vanderbilt University. The Mets convinced him to sign rather than attend college, offering him a huge $1.25MM bonus in the 11th round after most teams had passed assuming he’d head to school.

Jim Callis of MLB.com tweets that Gilbert and Clifford would’ve been his No. 1 and No. 2 Astros prospects, respectively, on the reranking of their system he’s set to publish following the deadline. Clifford hit just .247 but posted a .426 OBP in 101 plate appearances during his pro debut last year, and his rate stats in 2023 are outstanding: .291/.399/.520 in 371 plate appearances between Class-A and High-A. He’s slugged 18 home runs and 16 doubles, walking at a hearty 12.4% clip against a 24% strikeout rate.

FanGraphs had already bumped Clifford to the Astros’ No. 2 prospect — he’s now eighth in the Mets’ system on their rankings — crediting him with the potential to grow into 70-grade raw power. He’s a corner outfielder/first baseman with below-average speed and above-average arm strength. So long as his bat and overall offensive approach continue on their current trajectories, he could be in an outfield corner with occasional first base and DH time for the Mets at some point in 2025.

The Mets have done a nice job adding to their system, acquiring at least a pair of top-100-caliber prospects (Acuna, Gilbert) and another (Clifford) who could get there before long. They’ve paid a steep price to do so, however, gutting their 2023 roster and paying down close to $71MM on the Scherzer and Verlander deals alone. They’ve also saved just over $86MM on the pair of trades, including both salary and luxury tax penalties. In the event Verlander’s option vests and he exercises it, those savings would jump to more than $119MM (while the dead money they’d paid down would rise to more than $86MM).

The Mets are so far into the fourth and final tier of luxury penalization, that short of getting a team to take on the entirety of the Verlander and Scherzer contracts, there was no real way of ducking back underneath that line. The Astros, meanwhile, have received enough cash from the Mets that they’ll likely come in under the luxury line. Roster Resource had them exceeding the $233MM first-tier threshold by only a margin of $1.7MM even when assuming the full freight of Verlander’s remaining money; that clearly won’t be the case now. That would’ve been the first time Houston had crossed into luxury territory, but they’ll now have Verlander for a total of $22.777MM for the remainder of this season and next — plus an additional $17.5MM in 2025 if that option vests and he picks it up.

Bob Nightengale of USA Today first reported the Astros were acquiring Verlander for two prospects. Mark Feinsand of MLB.com first reported Gilbert’s inclusion, while Nightengale was first on Clifford. Joel Sherman of the New York Post was first with the specific financial breakdown.

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Houston Astros New York Mets Newsstand Transactions Drew Gilbert Joe Perez Justin Verlander Ryan Clifford

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View Comments (509)

Comments

  1. dejota

    2 months ago

    This sparks joy!

    9
    Reply
    • Tcsbaseball

      2 months ago

      Love the moves my Rangers made but man, this is depressing

      10
      Reply
      • dejota

        2 months ago

        For the sake of the rivalry I love the fact both of us are going hard!

        13
        Reply
        • neurogame

          2 months ago

          TWSS.

          Reply
        • LouWhitakerHOF

          2 months ago

          The Houston Astros are going to the World Series!!

          4
          Reply
        • nukeg

          2 months ago

          “In all, they’re paying as much as $52.5MM of the nearly $93MM that could still be paid out on his deal”.

          So basically the Astros just signed Justin Verlander for $40M for 2.3 seasons.

          Yes, 2 prospects are going the other way, but WTF is Steve Cohen doing. Every rival club should be irate, esp those in the AL West. Astros just got JV for a 50% discount.

          3
          Reply
      • Captain-Judge99

        2 months ago

        Nah no worries. Isn’t Verlander 50 years old now? Let’s Go Rangers!

        4
        Reply
        • Devil Rays, Indians, Redskins

          2 months ago

          Hey if the Yankees can’t win why not jump on the next bandwagon right? Haha still remember when you tried convincing people you were Aaron Judge. Stuff like that just follows you around.

          13
          Reply
        • Bostonsports85

          2 months ago

          Isn’t max 50 years old as well lmfao like just NO ….that was a fail bro

          3
          Reply
        • Rsox

          2 months ago

          When you have Kate Upton at home you have a veritable fountain of youth…

          8
          Reply
        • Captain-Judge99

          2 months ago

          Nah she’ll be staying at home in NY for a while, with a better man(me)

          Reply
        • Captain-Judge99

          2 months ago

          I’m not Aaron Judge?

          1
          Reply
      • DougieDimezz

        2 months ago

        Cincy had better prospects but Kate doesn’t like Skyline Chili…

        5
        Reply
        • AFrenchBullDog

          2 months ago

          Are you for real? Who doesn’t like Skyline

          4
          Reply
        • DonnyElementary

          2 months ago

          Biggest disappointment when I visited Cincinnati was Skyline.

          8
          Reply
        • cknabb

          2 months ago

          I like(d) Frisch’s.

          1
          Reply
        • AFrenchBullDog

          2 months ago

          3 way with oyster crackers. You can’t go wrong bud

          1
          Reply
        • Unclenolanrules

          2 months ago

          Chili from north of the Red River is suspect.

          4
          Reply
        • Justajaysfan

          2 months ago

          Nothing better then a good 3-way

          4
          Reply
        • DonnyElementary

          2 months ago

          Frisch’s Big Boy was all right.

          Reply
        • Snuffy

          2 months ago

          It’s all in the preparation.

          Reply
        • @DaOldDerbyBastard

          2 months ago

          5 way chili bowl here. Lots of hot sauce.

          1
          Reply
        • DCartrow

          2 months ago

          Big time on the 5-way.

          Make sure that bathroom Nutone fan is in proper working order.

          2
          Reply
        • cleveland_spider

          2 months ago

          It sucks bro

          1
          Reply
        • DonnyElementary

          2 months ago

          I’m sure it’s either an acquired taste like Krystal or you’re just born into liking it.

          Reply
      • AlistairC

        2 months ago

        Agreed @tcs. Told my friend that it was neat seeing the trade given his history in Houston and “Oh C#@p” given the Astros can possibly take the division lead tonight.

        Reply
      • JazzJazz

        2 months ago

        This is the Mets sticking it to the Braves by giving a power arm to each of the Braves’ likely World Series opponents.

        Reply
        • Slow day at work

          2 months ago

          But did they really?

          1
          Reply
        • TheDP

          2 months ago

          Max could not answer the bell two years ago when he sat out the Dodgers getting spanked by the Braves in the NLCS. Justin is liable to have his arm fall off by October

          Reply
        • Samuel

          2 months ago

          Curly Was The Smart Stooge;

          Mr. Cohen is paying somewhere between $52.5MM and nearly $93MM to get 2 prospects. Now….

          THAT’S funny!

          LOL

          4
          Reply
        • DonnyElementary

          2 months ago

          He’s just going to write it off his taxes somehow.

          1
          Reply
        • Hondo92

          2 months ago

          So the Braves could even the score and land Alcantara. He’s younger, healthier, goes 7 or 8 innings and costs half as much. Two top pitching prospects and a middle infielder ought to do it.

          Reply
        • Samuel

          2 months ago

          So total Mr. Cohen is spending between $88MM and $123.5MM for 3 prospects.

          The man is amazing.

          “Uncle Stevie’s beautiful money”!

          Putting the $ in Met$.

          Tell him I’ll fly in and sweep the floor in his office for a measly $125,000.

          1
          Reply
        • DonnyElementary

          2 months ago

          Only if you do it naked, Samuel.

          2
          Reply
        • Samuel

          2 months ago

          How about a Met$ jersey and no pants?

          3
          Reply
        • richardc

          2 months ago

          From all the games I’ve watched, the Braves typically hit Scherzer really well.

          Actually, they normally hit some of the best pitchers really well. Oddly enough, it is the rookies that they tend to have trouble hitting.

          Even in the playoffs, I would much rather the Braves face Scherzer than a guy like Chase Silseth…lol

          Idk if it is a lack of a scouting report, no one being able to provide any insight because no one has faced him before, or what..

          Whatever the reason, the first time through the order they make rookies look like Roger Clemens or Greg Maddux.

          They get a little better the second time through the order, but even still they have a hard time putting together quality at-bats..

          Now, if the manager is dumb enough to leave them in the game for their lineup to face that pitcher for a third time, then they finally begin to hit him and hit him hard, but usually during the 2nd time through the order the manager sees the Braves making adjustments, sees then making louder contact more often, and realizes pretty quickly that the Braves are beginning to figure his pitcher out..

          Still though, 4-5 scoreless or one run innings in the playoffs is a manager’s dream, especially facing an offense like the Braves…

          Idk, it is just weird, you’d think the rookie would be intimidated, really nervous, or you’d think his adrenaline might be pumping extremely high causing him to miss his spots, but for whatever reason rookie pitchers have shown they typically hold the advantage over the Braves.

          They have always struggled against rookie pitchers, and their pitchers have seemingly always struggled against defensive first, backup catchers…lol They crush Braves pitching somehow, idk, but more often than not, they do really well against Atlanta…!?!?

          1
          Reply
    • Hemlock

      2 months ago

      I am happy that the Braves did not get him.

      12
      Reply
      • DarkSide830

        2 months ago

        indeed

        Reply
      • jswanny41

        2 months ago

        The Braves were never going to get him

        4
        Reply
      • RunDMC

        2 months ago

        Look who V had his worst outing against. 🙂

        1
        Reply
      • Still in talks

        2 months ago

        Like the Braves have anything to offer.

        Reply
        • Curly Was The Smart Stooge

          2 months ago

          Agreed @Still in talks, a team that is in 1st place by 11 games has nothing to offer.
          In reality, the Braves should have traded baseball acumen and advice alone for Verlander & the Mets would have come up on top…

          2
          Reply
        • Still in talks

          2 months ago

          You think the Braves would trade from the roster? Hahahah. Learn something new everyday.

          Reply
        • richardc

          2 months ago

          The Braves could easily acquire alot of the available starters, but they aren’t so short sighted.

          They aren’t trading away several years of control of a solid hitting 2B, in Vaughn Grissom nor several years of control of a 20yr old top100 prospect in AJ Smith-Shawver just for a one year or one and a half year rental, and especially not for one that isn’t even all that great.

          Of course it’s all a moot point, the Mets would never make a trade with the Braves unless they were going to clearly win the trade, and AA isn’t that stupid…

          Anyways, the point is, as hard as it is for you to believe, regardless of how many quality players they’ve called up, the Braves STILL have a few big trade chips left that they could use as the centerpieces of most “big” deals…

          That’s not to say they couldn’t be outbid, but to act like Grissom and AJSS are nothing just shows that you’re either just extremely biased, or you just aren’t educated on the Braves system…Either way, you’re clearly wrong…

          3
          Reply
        • Still in talks

          2 months ago

          The fact that they only have two coveted pieces just proves my point that they don’t have the capital to land a Verlander.

          It has nothing to do with being short sighted, the Braves operate with a philosophy of “win at all costs.” That philosophy is what got them to to win the WS when AA took over.

          You now nothing about the Braves organization. So just shut your trap and stop exposing your ignorance.

          Reply
      • JoeBrady

        2 months ago

        I am happy that the Braves did not get him.
        ======================
        That’s a little sad. It’s like resenting a former g/f or b/f who doesn’t even remember you.

        Reply
      • Devil Rays, Indians, Redskins

        2 months ago

        Because nobody wants one of the two reigning cy young winners

        1
        Reply
    • slidepiece

      2 months ago

      Astros’ window slams shut in 2025. Numbers 1 and 4 prospects guarantees this

      2
      Reply
      • DonnyElementary

        2 months ago

        Is Click having a good laugh right now?

        Reply
        • Domingo111

          2 months ago

          Astros now have one of the worst farm systems in the majors. Of course missing out the top2 picks of the 2020 and 2021 drafts as a punishment of the sign stealing scandal is showing now but also years of drafting low and buying every deadline.

          But I wouldn’t write them off, their player dev is very good and they might find some guys again soon

          3
          Reply
        • Astros2017&22Champs

          2 months ago

          We gave up 2 marquee talents but our system while lousy is deepest in ofers.

          Reply
        • thunderecho

          2 months ago

          The Astros 2021 Draft is on pace to be one of the most productive the last decade for the Team.

          1
          Reply
        • mro940

          2 months ago

          Productive for…the Mets? Lol

          It’s only a “fair” trade if Houston wins it all again. Sheesh. What a dinosaur they got back…but lol at NYM for paying half

          1
          Reply
        • Devil Rays, Indians, Redskins

          2 months ago

          Good thing rankings don’t matter when the Astros just keep turning out mlb players. Where was urquidy on these rankings? How about Garcia? Stros have one of the best front offices their window will extend past 2030

          1
          Reply
        • Ma4170

          2 months ago

          You say that like urquidy has been good in recent years… and garcia was terrible before the injury this year

          Reply
        • Devil Rays, Indians, Redskins

          2 months ago

          A year they made him change his stance. Let’s just forget he finished in Roy voting

          1
          Reply
        • Ma4170

          2 months ago

          He’s a good sp, but no more than a number 3 on most teams… which is fine, just not what some make him out to be on here.
          And many before the year were anointing javier a sure fire ace, and we see thats not happening yet either. Probably some day, but not yet.

          1
          Reply
        • Devil Rays, Indians, Redskins

          2 months ago

          Javier hit a bump for sure but he still has an ace profile

          1
          Reply
        • Ma4170

          2 months ago

          Agree, I’m still high on him longer term, i just thought some jumped the gun on him being elite already.

          2
          Reply
        • Memphis Kong

          2 months ago

          Who cares if they get back to the WS. That would be 7 straight ALCS’S. Prospects are just that.

          3
          Reply
        • Memphis Kong

          2 months ago

          That dino is pitching 1.75 the last 7 games.

          2
          Reply
      • Astros Hot Takes

        2 months ago

        y’all keep hoping that, but dude that was our 21st ranked coming into this season, a 14th round draft pick, is now 7-3 with a 2.85 ERA in 91 innings for us.

        Reply
      • BizzyDat

        2 months ago

        Flags fly forever

        If they win it all. If they don’t, then yes I agree you are right, but I’d rather someone go for it

        Reply
        • stymeedone

          2 months ago

          What if its a White Flag? Cohen is still paying over 50% of the salaries he traded away (plus the penalties). Maybe they will make it an event, and sell tickets to its hoisting.

          2
          Reply
      • stroh

        2 months ago

        Right. Our entire starting rotation except JV is under 30, and Alvarez/Tucker are 26. McCormick and Peña are just as young. Diaz is a great young catcher. You really sure about that?

        2
        Reply
        • thunderecho

          2 months ago

          Stroh, people talk out their rear ends when they criticize the Astros’ system. OF Luis Baez has the most upside of any OF in the Astros system (including the players traded today). Mets wanted him over OF Ryan Clifford. Both Clifford and Gilbert project as corner OFers in the big leagues.

          At AA, slick fielding CF Kenedy Corona played more games at CF than Gilbert.

          Clifford’s probably going to end up at 1B (he played most of his games there this season).

          Astros #28th ranked prospect SS Shay Whitcomb is on 30+/100 RBI pace at AAA.

          Perhaps the best all around prospect in the Astros system is OF/IF Joey Loperfido – he is a 20 HR/20 SB player. Great defensively at ALL IF/OF positions.

          Astros acquired both JV and Graveman without giving up any of their top pitching prospects. Astros traded 3 prospects at positions where the Astros have the most organizational depth.

          The fact that the Astros held onto their pitching prospects and best true CF prospects while acquiring both JV and Graveman is phenomenal.

          2
          Reply
    • Yuri Tarted

      2 months ago

      Bring back Cespedes!!! DFA Vogelbach!!!

      1
      Reply
      • DonnyElementary

        2 months ago

        Get little Cespedes from the Sox. You can trade Vogue for him.

        1
        Reply
        • Yuri Tarted

          2 months ago

          Prefer the OG but… Yoelkis also > than Vogelbach

          1
          Reply
    • iverbure

      2 months ago

      The Mets next year are better off just signing everyone to a 1 year contract at way way higher AAV than their worth. That way when they have to trade them away next July it’s only for the year not multiple years.

      Reply
    • LouWhitakerHOF

      2 months ago

      The Houston Astros are going to the World Series!!

      1
      Reply
      • Astros Hot Takes

        2 months ago

        I hope so, Lou

        1
        Reply
    • Captain-Judge99

      2 months ago

      Hopefully he can leave Kate in NY, all 4 me!!!

      Reply
  2. CubsWin108

    2 months ago

    lol mets

    29
    Reply
    • myaccount2

      2 months ago

      Why exactly? They signed him for just money then traded him for two prospects.

      15
      Reply
      • CubsWin108

        2 months ago

        lol mets

        8
        Reply
        • texasfury93

          2 months ago

          lol mets

          1
          Reply
      • SHAMROCKYOASS60803

        2 months ago

        I think hes insulting the Mets as a whole and not the individual signing. having Max and Justin and selling off in 3 months makes them more of a joke than if they never had them in the first place. Like a lower level Trout/Ohtani/LAA

        8
        Reply
        • myaccount2

          2 months ago

          How exactly? They failed as a team this year, sure, but they turned Scherzer and Verlander into top prospects. I don’t understand how it would’ve been better for them to not sign either. This benefits them in the long run.

          12
          Reply
        • Cohen's _Wallet

          2 months ago

          @Sahmrock

          I think perspective is key, people see things the way they want to see it. It’s hard to fight ignorance.

          4
          Reply
        • JoeBrady

          2 months ago

          I don’t understand how it would’ve been better for them to not sign either.
          ==============================
          If money doesn’t matter, then prospects don’t matter. If the NYMs continue to spend $385M, that’s like 18 $20M players, plus fringes. If you sign 18 $20M players, 1-2 fringy top-100 prospects makes no difference.

          Reply
        • myaccount2

          2 months ago

          Not only is your assessment of their payroll distribution incorrect (they have ten guys making $1M or less), but for some reason adding young, controllable talent is a bad thing? That’s illogical. If either Acuna or Gilbert can be an everyday regular, they can spend money elsewhere. It’s never bad to have more young talent.

          3
          Reply
        • Prospectnvstr

          2 months ago

          Basically the Mets BOUGHT the PROSPECTS and the Astros & Rangers are SIGNING Max and JV for 1+ yrs at a reduced (for the acquiring team) cost.

          8
          Reply
        • JoeBrady

          2 months ago

          It’s not a bad thing, so long as you do not run out of money. But if you never run out of money, then prospects are superfluous.

          1
          Reply
        • 99socalfrc

          2 months ago

          They will have paid like $100m for the prospects they got back from Texas and Houston. So even claiming “they got prospects” is categorically crazy.

          Didn’t the Mets GM or baseball ops president come from the Angels? The guys track record seems like he is probably more fit for bagging groceries or working a fast food drive thru? How do these front office guys keep brainwashing owners?

          Reply
        • nwwh

          2 months ago

          Exactly

          Reply
        • Slow day at work

          2 months ago

          But Acuna and Gilbert are already costing the Mets 90M over this season and the next 2. So it’s not like they are low cost players

          1
          Reply
        • stymeedone

          2 months ago

          Mets paid over $45MM for MS and JV to play for the competition, and could be more in the future should JV’s option vest. That money could have been used so much better. I don’t care what prospects came back. This was a mistake of massive proportion.

          1
          Reply
        • OrangeCrushCity

          2 months ago

          Prospects are absolutely necessary at the trade deadline. It would be a very very rare occurrence for any team to win it all with the exact same guys they started with on opening day. Injuries and underperformance happen to every team. Pretty much always have to add a player or two to get there. Can’t do that if you have no prospects.

          1
          Reply
        • bigdaddyt

          2 months ago

          I bet they did make some money though off those names before the season really started

          Reply
        • Devil Rays, Indians, Redskins

          2 months ago

          Say what you will but the Mets are in a much better place moving forward than they were last week. I applaud what they just pulled off, 3 good to great prospects for 2 pitchers over 40 who wouldn’t bring in a World Series this year. Well done Mets

          3
          Reply
        • Devil Rays, Indians, Redskins

          2 months ago

          Please layout how you would’ve handled this trade deadline in you ran the Mets. Cohen money isn’t normal money he doesn’t care about paying the tax money. He just bought 3 top 100 prospects and flipped 2 40 year old pitchers. That’s called good roster management when money isn’t a factor

          3
          Reply
        • myaccount2

          2 months ago

          And then when they’re actually contributing they’ll each cost under $1M and NYM can sign new free agents to supplement them.

          Reply
        • Slow day at work

          2 months ago

          I think the “lolMets” move would have been to do just what Scherzer suggested. To dump more money next off season in free agents. I think what the Mets are doing now is the right approach.

          Next year, trade Alonzo if they can’t resign him long term, trade McNeil and Nimmo even if you have to eat some of their contract.

          Start ’25 with Acuna and Gilbert and maybe Clifford at 1B if Alonzo is gone.

          Reply
      • justinept

        2 months ago

        They signed him to win a championship. They traded him after 4 months.

        13
        Reply
        • myaccount2

          2 months ago

          They got Luisangel Acuna and Drew Gilbert out of it. They failed to win, but both trades were great.

          5
          Reply
        • brooklyn62

          2 months ago

          Gilbert is a fiery kid. Mets fans will love him when he joins the big club. I agree with your assessment. Max became a malcontent in a hurry, and would have been a clubhouse cancer, as well as the HRs given up so frequently this year. The Mets truthfully wouldn’t have contended for the WC this year.

          8
          Reply
        • Devil Rays, Indians, Redskins

          2 months ago

          Let’s not forget Ryan Clifford who’s no slouch

          Reply
      • abc123baseball

        2 months ago

        Exactly. Money is no object to Cohen and if the Mets are out this year, may as well buy some prospects.

        6
        Reply
        • DieSoxWhiteFan

          2 months ago

          I think this is the correct take. Two high upside prospects for a 40 year old and cash is better than holding a rental (Stroman/Bellinger) for a 20% chance at the playoffs and one supplemental pick at 35.

          4
          Reply
        • Curly Was The Smart Stooge

          2 months ago

          I can still hear some of the more extreme Met fans pounding their chests before the season began, like King Kong. “I told you so” has no effect. Sitting in front of my computer with a beer watching as the Mets disintergrate on MLBTR should teach a lesson to someone. Back your team but refrain from denigrating comments about others. If something stinks in the room, check yourself first, think of the shame when you find out its you.

          5
          Reply
        • Spotswood

          2 months ago

          20% playoff chances > 0%. And a healthy severing of disappointment that comes with the shortest competitive window slamming shut. After all that anticipation… Bam!!! Everything must go.

          Reply
        • DCartrow

          2 months ago

          Lolmets

          1
          Reply
      • SuperSloth

        2 months ago

        Until we know how much money went back and the prospects they got, no way to judge the deal.

        Reply
        • harrycarey

          2 months ago

          This will be interesting to see how the money plays out. I can’t recall a trade deadline other than 1976 when the financial issues were this impactful. It’s funny to me how back then it was bad for baseball and Bowie Kuhn stuck Charlie Finley and even forced the A’s to play short handed. Now it’s just Monopoly money for some.

          2
          Reply
      • Justajaysfan

        2 months ago

        I find it even funnier that you don’t see the comedy in the lolmets right now.

        Reply
        • myaccount2

          2 months ago

          I wish my team had an owner who went out and signed top FAs that could be flipped for top prospects if the team failed. I have more faith in them to win a title sooner than the M’s, who I root for.

          2
          Reply
        • Chipsss

          2 months ago

          This is exactly my feeling as a Giants fan. An owner spending their money, then being able to pull the rip cord and make value of that money is a good thing. The haters will hate because the team they root for isn’t doing it and they don’t understand, but I get it

          3
          Reply
        • Michael Carder

          2 months ago

          You are on a one man mission to absolve the Mets of failing to “Buy a Championship.” keep at it sir

          1
          Reply
        • JoeBrady

          2 months ago

          The Mets are doing what every losing team does. They are selling off assets.

          Meanwhile, what are you doing for 2024 without a rotation?

          Reply
        • stymeedone

          2 months ago

          How much are ticket prices going up next year?

          Reply
      • KSANC

        2 months ago

        What’s hard to understand? By trading away Scherzer and Verlander they are not only giving up on this year, they don’t have a rotation for next year either. Prospects are never guaranteed, Could be multiple years of sucking with the highest payroll. The mets are not very good at developing pitching after Sandy, and that’s not something you can simply fix by mindless spending because SP will be old and expensive when they reach FA. Even Cohen has a limit, he has mentioned multiple times that the goal is consistent success and building a good farm like the dodgers. Will they ever get there.

        1
        Reply
        • Ella B

          2 months ago

          KS, they’ve sucked while having the highest payroll exactly once, this year. They’re shedding a ton of payroll, albeit at Cohen’s expense so who cares? Senga is a solid 2/3 and Quintana a solid 3. They can sign Yamamoto and Snell and have a pretty good starting 4, and both could be had for close to what JV was owed. The kids they got in both trades look like they’ll be ready by AS break, latest, next year. Yes, this year was a disaster but with an owner willing to spend (sometimes like a drunken sailor), and eat money when he wakes up from what he did, provides some level of solace to Mets fans.

          2
          Reply
        • KSANC

          2 months ago

          Except they won’t be signing high profile guys this FA and are basically entering rebuild. Eppler said the Mets will be on smaller deals and the realistic outlook is 2026. They were also open to trade Alonso, Quintana and Brooks Raley, that’s not tanking for just one year. It’s great to have an owner willing to spend, but everyone has a limit, especially Cohen gets more in touch with reality now, not to mention that going over luxury tax year after year affects draft picks and bonus pool.

          2
          Reply
    • phenomenalajs

      2 months ago

      That Cubs win 108 is once in 108 years? The Mets at least won it twice and made it three other times since 1962, so I’d hold off on the LOLs.

      3
      Reply
      • CubsWin108

        2 months ago

        lol mets

        1
        Reply
        • Blue Baron

          2 months ago

          LOLCubsWin

          3
          Reply
      • Justajaysfan

        2 months ago

        The last 108 years makes no difference, The Mets are a absolute joke right now.

        1
        Reply
        • rct

          2 months ago

          “The Mets are a absolute joke right now.”

          They won 101 games last year, now have one of the best farm systems in the game, and have an owner willing to spend whatever it takes to build a winner (and who also isn’t so stubborn that he can’t admit when he’s wrong). What exactly is an ‘absolute joke’ about that? As a fan, I’m excited. Way more excited than if the Wilpons were still running the team.

          7
          Reply
        • JoeBrady

          2 months ago

          More exciting than the Wilpons is a rather low bar.

          2
          Reply
        • stymeedone

          2 months ago

          One way of building a team down, one million more to go!

          1
          Reply
        • Justajaysfan

          2 months ago

          They just paid 53 million for prospects, majority of which won’t turn into players with the Mets since they prefer to overpay veterans for past seasons performance. Team aren’t winning these days by spending 400 million dollars, so watching this blow up as almost any fan of baseball saw coming makes them a joke right now, idc what comes of the prospects, or the cubs 108 years. RIGHT NOW…the Mets are a joke lol

          1
          Reply
        • ChuckyNJ

          2 months ago

          “They won 101 games last year” while choking away the NL East and then getting smoked in the Wild Card round. Now it’s LOL moment after LOL moment, so much that even British sports sites know the meaning of LOLmets.

          Reply
      • DieSoxWhiteFan

        2 months ago

        I’m sorry to say this but the Cubs are to White Sox as the Yankees are to Mets.. Cubs are pitiful, but Mets/Sox are the baseball step dads of their respective cities.

        1
        Reply
        • ChuckyNJ

          2 months ago

          Every LOL moment keeps the spotlight in New York off the Yankees’ own collapse (and the Bombers are about to go down again to the devil-may-care Rays).

          Reply
    • AlistairC

      2 months ago

      It’s both lol Mets and “Dang, wish my owner could spin a bad season into multiple top prospects because $$$ no object.”

      4
      Reply
      • rct

        2 months ago

        @AlistairC: Yours is the correct take, imo. They tried and failed, but they at least have the ability to admit they failed. They’ve turned a mediocre farm system into a top 10 (maybe higher) system and all it cost was a few million out of their billionaire owner’s pocket. And they can spend again this offseason.

        7
        Reply
        • jwt421

          2 months ago

          I’m disappointed that the season is going down the tubes. I’m not sure how many games I can stomach this year watching Peterson, McGill, Carassco and I’m guessing Lucheesi will start. But, this year’s Mets were going nowhere fast. This is the smart move.

          @AlistaitrC – It didn’t cost them anything. That money was already spent. It’s a sunk cost. Let’s say they kept Scherzer. He was owed $15 million for the rest of the year and he will make $43 million next year when he excercised his player option to stay. The trade netted them a top prospect, and recouped money that can be spent on the open market next year for another pitcher like Nola or Urias.

          1
          Reply
      • CubsWin108

        2 months ago

        lol mets

        4
        Reply
      • DonnyElementary

        2 months ago

        Nah, it’s just LOL Mets until one year they might get lucky with one of the sprees.

        1
        Reply
        • Blue Baron

          2 months ago

          LOLCubsWinEver

          Reply
    • Chris G.

      2 months ago

      Meanwhile, the Cubs foolishly believe they can suddenly compete and they’ll lose Stroman and Bellinger for absolutely nothing.

      Lolcubs

      4
      Reply
      • Justajaysfan

        2 months ago

        Knowing how the Mets operate lately, they will take that top 10 farm system, and the prospects they acquire, and trade them for high priced vets on bad contracts.

        2
        Reply
        • rodcannon

          2 months ago

          Cohen’s Mets have not done that yet, Jusajaysfan. What makes you think they will now?

          1
          Reply
      • DonnyElementary

        2 months ago

        Have you ever heard of the White Flag trade? That’s the situation the Cubs are in.

        Reply
    • Huck 3

      2 months ago

      Sounds like jealousy to me. Don’t you wish the Cubs had someone to trade to get this kind of return? Hmmnn … of course, of course you do.

      1
      Reply
      • Spotswood

        2 months ago

        You mean like PCA..

        Reply
        • Huck 3

          2 months ago

          Yep. You had it then, we have it now. No doubt PCA will be very good for you. I hope he is!

          Reply
    • SeeUonTheUlnarSide

      2 months ago

      LOL Cubs.

      What was the return on Cody Bellinger?

      ::crickets::

      Reply
      • JoeBrady

        2 months ago

        LOL!

        Maybe that’s because the Cubs are still competing and the NYMs have thrown in the towel?

        1
        Reply
        • SeeUonTheUlnarSide

          2 months ago

          Competing for what? Kings of Mediocrity? Do you really think they have a chance against ANY contender?

          The Cubs are a feel good .500 team that were predicted to keep the Pirates warm at the bottom of the division. Don’t get delusional and think a parade is coming to Hipsterville anytime soon.

          FYI…. look at the Wild Card Standings…. Cubs are 3.5 back, Mets are 6 back. Perspective…..

          1
          Reply
        • JoeBrady

          2 months ago

          Such an odd reaction. The Cubs are taking a chance they can make the playoffs, while the Mets are waving the white flag, and you think the Cubs are the ones with the problem?

          1
          Reply
        • SeeUonTheUlnarSide

          2 months ago

          Realistic expectations are not an odd reaction.

          1
          Reply
      • CubsWin108

        2 months ago

        lol mets

        Reply
  3. Captain-Judge99

    2 months ago

    Wow a real shocker!

    1
    Reply
  4. Logjammer D"Baggagecling

    2 months ago

    The deal includes his own personal trash can

    24
    Reply
    • dejota

      2 months ago

      Yessssss stay mad. You know he doesn’t hit right? Even in the NL…

      8
      Reply
      • Logjammer D"Baggagecling

        2 months ago

        Lol. It’s a joke. Didn’t mean to trigger you. He’s the one hitting the trash can.

        12
        Reply
        • Edp007

          2 months ago

          Lol that’s funny. Good retort

          Reply
        • flamingbagofpoop

          2 months ago

          Jokes are supposed to be funny…

          Reply
    • AceKing

      2 months ago

      They have trash cans that make different notes depending on the signs.

      5
      Reply
    • GIG

      2 months ago

      RENT FREE

      7
      Reply
      • NYCityRiddler

        2 months ago

        You think it’s gonna stop, because it’s not. They’re cheaters & that’s what they’ll ALWAYS be remembered as. Put that in your juice box & suck it. Ahahaha!

        7
        Reply
        • dejota

          2 months ago

          Juice box full of championship rings sorry.

          7
          Reply
        • Cory in Texas

          2 months ago

          Yep. Cheating winners aren’t winners at all. Toss those ‘ships in the trashcan they were made from.

          1
          Reply
        • stroh

          2 months ago

          You’re just sore that your trash team hasn’t won anything in 60 years of futility
          Bang-Bang

          1
          Reply
        • Cory in Texas

          2 months ago

          Rather lose honestly than win dishonestly.

          Reply
        • Devil Rays, Indians, Redskins

          2 months ago

          And people like you who keep it going 6 years later (and counting) just show what pitiful lives you have.

          In case you missed it the Astros just won another championship last year. As in defending champions

          1
          Reply
        • Cory in Texas

          2 months ago

          Kudos to the legit ‘ships. Respect is earned, and well earned when the it’s done right.

          Reply
        • GIG

          2 months ago

          RENT FREE

          1
          Reply
  5. Joshy

    2 months ago

    Wow! Sucks as a Mariners Fan

    4
    Reply
    • Kershaw's Lesser Known Right Arm

      2 months ago

      Didn’t you destroy JV in the playoffs?

      6
      Reply
    • samtb13

      2 months ago

      Mariners actually have done some dammage against JV

      2
      Reply
      • Joshy

        2 months ago

        Fair points, but was enjoying their bleak rotation with all the injuries. This will probably be a beneficial move that will allow their staff more rest and recovery.

        3
        Reply
  6. AceKing

    2 months ago

    Good for them all

    Reply
  7. Edp007

    2 months ago

    Tough ticket to be had , Max vs JV. Division series on the line

    4
    Reply
    • Logjammer D"Baggagecling

      2 months ago

      Game 7 both pitchers pitched game 5. Both of them come in to try to close out the game. The Tejas Rangers prevail and win the game on a swinging bunt over JVs head.

      2
      Reply
    • VonPurpleHayes

      2 months ago

      Scherzer has looked bad in big games the last 2 years.

      6
      Reply
      • brooklyn62

        2 months ago

        Yup…hang that slider Max, watch it go yard.

        4
        Reply
      • Edp007

        2 months ago

        Yes he has , but the networks will play it up. Probably ensure Sunday night matchup

        Reply
  8. CommentsSectionCommenter

    2 months ago

    Look forward to hearing how they figured their way through that poison-pill 3rd year…..

    1
    Reply
    • Astros Hot Takes

      2 months ago

      the third year is not a problem, I think – but I sure want 15 million back to offset next year.

      Houston, we have a huge luxury tax problem here.

      2
      Reply
      • Edp007

        2 months ago

        As I’ve said over and over , when an mlb owner wants to spend , tax not an issue.

        1
        Reply
        • Astros Hot Takes

          2 months ago

          but the problem is, that it IS an issue, always – going over causes all kinds of terrible, cascading problems for sustained winning

          but yeah, Crane’s handprints are all over this deal – check out this GREAT article on how things went down in the Grienke deal

          si.com/mlb/2019/10/01/houston-astros-zack-greinke-…

          1
          Reply
        • Edp007

          2 months ago

          I know what you’re saying AHT , but doesn’t it only become an issue for sustained winning when the owner stops spending , or his fellow owners shoot him for causing salaries to go up 🙂

          1
          Reply
        • JoeBrady

          2 months ago

          It is just like national deficits are never a problem, until they are a problem. Or bank leverage is never a problem, until it is a problem.

          Even you spend $385M, you will always (should) be a competitor. The addition of 1-2 prospects are the deck chairs of the Queen Mary.

          2
          Reply
  9. KingOmar

    2 months ago

    Stupid

    Reply
  10. MPrck

    2 months ago

    WOW…………..THE TRADE OF THE DEADLINE……..

    7
    Reply
  11. jimthegoat

    2 months ago

    Confused. Why not just sign him in the first place?

    6
    Reply
    • dejota

      2 months ago

      They weren’t and aren’t willing to pay that amount.

      2
      Reply
      • jimthegoat

        2 months ago

        Kinda sounds like they are

        Reply
    • manfraud

      2 months ago

      They probably didn’t want to spend the cash, but their rotation has been pretty banged up this year. I also thought it was kinda funny he’s back

      1
      Reply
    • etex211

      2 months ago

      Probably because they preferred to just wait a half season and let the Mets pay half his salary.

      5
      Reply
      • rct

        2 months ago

        “Probably because they preferred to just wait a half season and let the Mets pay half his salary.”

        Bold and stupid move, if you ask me, considering it just cost them two of their best prospects when it could have just cost them money. The owners are wealthy. Would have made more sense to just pay Verlander and keep the prospects.

        3
        Reply
        • JoeBrady

          2 months ago

          That depends on the money. Scherzer cost the NYMs maybe $34,000,000. You think a #100 prospect is worth $34 large?

          4
          Reply
        • Blue Baron

          2 months ago

          It’s not my money or yours, so who are you to judge?

          Reply
        • Lrtexasman

          2 months ago

          Those prospects likely aren’t worth the 40 million the Astros can spend in free agency or apply towards resigning Tucker, ect.. Plus the championship window with the current roster remains open..

          3
          Reply
        • Armaments216

          2 months ago

          On the other hand, if you trade for a top pitcher it’s pretty likely he’ll be healthy on August 1st.

          Reply
        • JoeBrady

          2 months ago

          If the conversation is about whether to pay Verlander $43M, or pay Verlander $16M and a couple of prospects, I’d prefer the Verlander $16M edition.

          Whose money it is makes no difference to me. IMO, the Astros won this easily.

          5
          Reply
        • Blue Baron

          2 months ago

          It’s not a question of one team or another “winning” when both accomplish their objectives.

          1
          Reply
        • Devil Rays, Indians, Redskins

          2 months ago

          In a vacuum the Astros won it but there’s potential for Gilbert and Clifford to both become above average mlb players. Just as much potential to fizzle out before they even make it, as with all prospects still don’t think the Mets could’ve done better with max and verlander

          2
          Reply
  12. Lefty_Orioles_Fan

    2 months ago

    Drat!

    Oh well, I guess Verlander was home sick

    Anyway, I want

    1.) Dylan Cease
    2,.) Jake Burger, Power Bat from the Sox

    they would help the O’s!

    3
    Reply
    • Cooperdooper7

      2 months ago

      Thats just what the Orioles need…. a right handed power hitting thirdbaseman that strikes out a ton to hit homers at Camden yards… sarcasm

      1
      Reply
      • Lefty_Orioles_Fan

        2 months ago

        Despite the Sarcasm

        It would not hurt to add a power bat such as Burger’s to the O’s lineup

        Reply
    • Blue Baron

      2 months ago

      @Lefty_Orioles_Fan: And you got Jack Flaherty. Oh well.

      Reply
  13. EliMorganFanClub

    2 months ago

    He was meant to stay an Astro

    3
    Reply
  14. CamFrost

    2 months ago

    Astros needed to make a SP move, obviously. Grass ain’t always greener JV! Welcome back lol

    2
    Reply
  15. Cohen's _Wallet

    2 months ago

    Wawaweewa

    2
    Reply
  16. In Seager We Trust

    2 months ago

    The focus is on who to credit more than who is going to NY? Lol journalists

    2
    Reply
  17. rhandome

    2 months ago

    lol

    Reply
  18. mlb1225

    2 months ago

    Run it back like it’s 2017 (maybe without the aid of some trash receptacle)

    2
    Reply
    • GIG

      2 months ago

      RENT FREE

      Reply
      • mlb1225

        2 months ago

        Not really; low-key was hoping they’d win it last season because I wanted to stop hearing about how they were completley fradulant and couldn’t hit without the can when they were very clearly an elite team, with or without it.

        2
        Reply
        • Devil Rays, Indians, Redskins

          2 months ago

          And they did yet you make the same old jokes. At least come up with new material

          Reply
        • mlb1225

          2 months ago

          Wasnt really trying to make a joke. I don’t like controversy in baseball, and hope that we can get a good World Series without it.

          1
          Reply
  19. Tyson’s Pet Tiger

    2 months ago

    Welcome back to the juice box Mr. Upton

    Reply
  20. DepressedDodgerFan

    2 months ago

    Please Cease or Eduardo to LA

    1
    Reply
  21. brooklyn62

    2 months ago

    Uh…where did the Mets starting rotation go? It was here just a minute ago…

    8
    Reply
    • SteveC

      2 months ago

      It did the Texas two step

      7
      Reply
      • brooklyn62

        2 months ago

        WOW! That was good! Bravo!

        2
        Reply
        • SteveC

          2 months ago

          Much obliged

          1
          Reply
  22. Motor City Beach Bum

    2 months ago

    Good stuff. Now the Dodgers can send a package to the Tigers for Erod and stop holding things up dreaming on Verlander.

    7
    Reply
    • DepressedDodgerFan

      2 months ago

      T H I S.

      Reply
    • Devil Rays, Indians, Redskins

      2 months ago

      Sooooo close to happening too

      Reply
  23. Astros Hot Takes

    2 months ago

    dude.

    Reply
  24. Lemonade24

    2 months ago

    Says who?

    Reply
  25. Gmen777

    2 months ago

    Honestly I respect the fact the Mets brass was willing to blow up 2023 instead of making a half-cocked attempt at a WC spot

    6
    Reply
  26. DarkSide830

    2 months ago

    “But he came back”

    Reply
  27. steven st croix

    2 months ago

    I think he goes to the HOF as an Astro.

    6
    Reply
    • Motor City Beach Bum

      2 months ago

      Tiger

      8
      Reply
    • rct

      2 months ago

      My money is on the Boggs route: Tampa Bay Devil Ray.

      2
      Reply
  28. basquiat

    2 months ago

    The Astros’ announcers danced around this deal for the whole game last night. You could hear the hopeful anticipation in their voices. Astros are now armed to run down Texas.

    4
    Reply
    • jjd002

      2 months ago

      They were taking them down without Verlander. They are much better than Texas.

      3
      Reply
      • Devil Rays, Indians, Redskins

        2 months ago

        Based on what ? I’m an Astros fan but take the homer glasses off for a second. Offense the rangers are better. Pitching probably slightly favors the Astros after they get verlander

        1
        Reply
  29. VonPurpleHayes

    2 months ago

    I hope he didn’t sell his house.

    1
    Reply
  30. Codeeg

    2 months ago

    Effectively just traded prospects for money and half a season without Verlander.

    1
    Reply
  31. This one belongs to the Reds

    2 months ago

    Not surprising

    Reply
  32. Robrock30

    2 months ago

    Mets fire sale everything must go! Lol

    3
    Reply
    • brooklyn62

      2 months ago

      Buy 2 Mets pitchers get a 3rd one free! Don’t delay!

      2
      Reply
      • VonPurpleHayes

        2 months ago

        There’s really only 1 pitcher left.

        Reply
        • Robrock30

          2 months ago

          Senga but not an ace and no high end SP in their minors either.

          Reply
  33. A Seal

    2 months ago

    All right Dodgers, plan B.

    3
    Reply
  34. Tacoshells

    2 months ago

    Could have just signed him in the off-season…

    1
    Reply
  35. ABraves23

    2 months ago

    Both Texas teams benefit from Mets self- destruction. Astros had to keep up with Rangers.

    Reply
    • Devil Rays, Indians, Redskins

      2 months ago

      They’re a half game out with 3/5 of their starting rotation injured

      1
      Reply
  36. thegreatgoodbye

    2 months ago

    HOU running circles around NYY. HOU doesn’t even have top MLB prospects

    2
    Reply
  37. THEY LIVE!!!

    2 months ago

    BOOOOOH‼️I hate the Astros‼️

    1
    Reply
    • GIG

      2 months ago

      RENT FREE

      3
      Reply
    • CamFrost

      2 months ago

      CRY

      1
      Reply
    • Slow day at work

      2 months ago

      BANG A TRASH CAN

      Reply
  38. MPrck

    2 months ago

    Bigger than the defeat at Stalingrad, the Mets fans staggered by this throw in the towel moment, fire the G.M. the cries ring out. He’s the guy that saddled the Angels with Rondon.

    Reply
  39. BizzyDat

    2 months ago

    10 years from now, JV will be a 4% answer on Immaculate Grid

    4
    Reply
  40. hiflew

    2 months ago

    The Astros top 4 prospects are all lefty hitting outfielders. Would make sense if one of them were involved.

    1
    Reply
    • hiflew

      2 months ago

      Hell yeah. First time I ever got one of these guesses correct.

      1
      Reply
  41. bhannah8213

    2 months ago

    Imagine losing him in FA and then having to give up prospects just to get him back…

    3
    Reply
    • Devil Rays, Indians, Redskins

      2 months ago

      Imagine getting the current cy young at half price

      1
      Reply
      • Slow day at work

        2 months ago

        For 2 and half years at 50% off, and it only costs 2 prospects that were probably never gonna play for you anyway

        Reply
  42. Dread Pirate Roberts

    2 months ago

    What a massively disappointing season.it will all feel better when Ohtani goes to Queens

    1
    Reply
    • JoeKelleyfightclub

      2 months ago

      Ohtani wants to play for a consistent winner, and he greatly prefers the West Coast. You’d probably have an easier time convincing him the Mets are located on the West Coast than convincing him the Mets are a winning ball club. No chance he comes to the Mets.

      2
      Reply
      • Dread Pirate Roberts

        2 months ago

        The West coast is overrated,he is probably tired of California.East coast and the Midwest have the best fans

        2
        Reply
        • Devil Rays, Indians, Redskins

          2 months ago

          Right because everyone knows those battery throwing Yankee fans are top notch people

          Reply
    • ❤️ MuteButton

      2 months ago

      $340,000,000+ in payroll and they couldn’t break .500. I think they should invest effort in developing players rather than dollars in free agency.

      Reply
    • Slow day at work

      2 months ago

      I guess by the 25th of August your feelings won’t hurt as much

      Reply
  43. THEY LIVE!!!

    2 months ago

    Maybe Dodgers or Angels can talk the White Sox out of Dylan Cease❓

    Reply
  44. ❤️ MuteButton

    2 months ago

    I’m an Astros fan and I cannot get behind this especially if it includes Chas McCormick.

    1
    Reply
    • ochemist4

      2 months ago

      Or JP France/Hunter Brown. France lacks the experience, but he might be better right now than Verlander as far as regular season goes. I’ve been really impressed with what he’s done this season. Thankfully, I’m sure he’s not going back because he’s not considered a top prospect.

      1
      Reply
      • DarkSide830

        2 months ago

        I highly doubt Brown would be available in any way.

        1
        Reply
  45. texasfury93

    2 months ago

    Whitley and Gilbert?

    Reply
    • ❤️ MuteButton

      2 months ago

      Turns out I’m good with this move. They’re basically getting JV for about 16 million a year. They didn’t give up anybody that was major league ready.

      2
      Reply
  46. Dread Pirate Roberts

    2 months ago

    How much does Verlander save on taxes?

    1
    Reply
    • MorriesWigs

      2 months ago

      About 9%

      1
      Reply
  47. RoughRider701

    2 months ago

    Keeping up with the Joneses

    Reply
  48. padam

    2 months ago

    I thought it would be funny going from teammates to bitter rivals. And now it’s happening.

    Reply
  49. yan-key

    2 months ago

    Drew Gilbert

    Reply
  50. Catuli Carl

    2 months ago

    Pack your bags, Kate!

    5
    Reply
  51. DwayneMurphyFav

    2 months ago

    Mets playing checkers .. Astros playing chess

    Reply
    • rct

      2 months ago

      Astros could have just signed him for money last offseason. Instead they had to pay one of their top prospects to get him. How is that “chess”?

      5
      Reply
    • VonPurpleHayes

      2 months ago

      I would reverse that. Stros gave up huge pieces instead of just paying the cash.

      4
      Reply
      • jjd002

        2 months ago

        But now paying a lot less than it would have taken in the off season.

        1
        Reply
  52. Bright Side

    2 months ago

    Astros vs Braves Round 2 Ding!

    1
    Reply
  53. bjhaas1977

    2 months ago

    Who’s going to pitch next year?

    2
    Reply
    • hiflew

      2 months ago

      Whoever is willing to take millions to be disappointing.

      2
      Reply
  54. texgal01

    2 months ago

    2 minor leaguers was all saw to start. If that was all why did it not go last night. I was thinking more. But probably is

    1
    Reply
  55. Simm

    2 months ago

    Not a rebuild

    Reply
  56. nappi20

    2 months ago

    I hope Gilbert is in the package

    1
    Reply
    • jeff51488

      2 months ago

      He is

      Reply
  57. SupremeZeus

    2 months ago

    4 month chumps. Cue Timmy Trumpet. Sad trombone (trumpet).

    2
    Reply
  58. CardsFan57

    2 months ago

    Two prospects means a good amount of money is going with JV.

    2
    Reply
    • mlbnyyfan

      2 months ago

      I hate to admit it but Mets doing exactly what the Yankees should be doing

      2
      Reply
      • CardsFan57

        2 months ago

        I’m happy the Cardinals are stocking the farm by selling players with expiring contracts. Some of those prospects will work out even though most of them won’t work out.

        1
        Reply
  59. Milwaukee-2208

    2 months ago

    Listening to Heyman is really rough. He’s literally wrong on everything

    1
    Reply
    • Yanks2

      2 months ago

      He reminds me of Ben Stine

      Reply
  60. Edp007

    2 months ago

    Next July they trade Alonso ?

    Reply
    • jdizzle

      2 months ago

      outta trade him now while his value is high IMO.

      3
      Reply
      • Edp007

        2 months ago

        Agreed

        Reply
      • Devil Rays, Indians, Redskins

        2 months ago

        Why would you trade him when his value is so low? He’s having the worst year of his career

        218/314/506. All would be new career lows

        Edit okay not slugging it was .490 in 2020 but you get my point

        Reply
  61. Johnnymarty95

    2 months ago

    Looks like the Battle of Texas is starting to heat up in the AL West

    Reply
  62. Goatsby

    2 months ago

    The Mets have to be the biggest clown franchise in all of sports

    1
    Reply
    • Sourhaze

      2 months ago

      Except this was smart.

      Reply
  63. angels fan for life

    2 months ago

    Ohtani can take him off the Mets list there going to rebuild that team

    2
    Reply
    • CardsFan57

      2 months ago

      They can afford to sign more pitching next year.

      Reply
      • JoeBrady

        2 months ago

        Who are they going to sign that are better than Scherzer & Verlander?

        1
        Reply
        • CardsFan57

          2 months ago

          There are many free agents just as good at this point. Scherzer has been league average so far this year. Kudos to Verlander for his Ryan/Johnson like ability to stave off age related decline so far.

          1
          Reply
    • Bucsfan4ever

      2 months ago

      Ohtani will never sign with the Mets, Yankees, or Phillies. He will stay on the West Coast

      2
      Reply
      • CardsFan57

        2 months ago

        I’m going to be very surprised if he doesn’t sign with the Dodgers. They can afford him and it’s a perfect match.

        Reply
    • Slow day at work

      2 months ago

      The Mets (or Yankees for that matter) were never on Ohtani’s list.
      The list is short, in no particular order Anaheim, LA, Seattle, San Diego.

      Reply
  64. acoss13

    2 months ago

    It’s been interesting season for the Mets, really curious what they’re going to do in the offseason. They still have a core of players to build around to contend in 2024.

    1
    Reply
    • rct

      2 months ago

      The problem is they have no pitching, especially now. It’s Senga, Quintana, and garbage. And aside from Diaz, the bullpen is wide open as well.

      1
      Reply
    • JoeBrady

      2 months ago

      From what I can see, the NYMs 2024 is about $218M plus whatever they pick up in salary on the Verlander trade (let’s call it $240M). They are 20th in offense, and need two outfielders and a DH. And now they probably need 4 SPs.

      They now have only four players with a bWAR > 1.3. They need to spend at least $100M more to be competitive. They could be at the point where there are not enough FAs next year to make them a playoff team.

      1
      Reply
      • rct

        2 months ago

        “They need to spend at least $100M more to be competitive.”

        They likely will. But who cares how much money it is? We’re fans. It’s Cohen’s money and he’s willing to spend it. Whether it’s $100 million or $500 million, why should I as a fan care?

        3
        Reply
        • JoeBrady

          2 months ago

          Because the way you spend money counts. What are the NYMs going to do to make up for the loss of Scherzer & Verlander? Think about it from a different perspective.

          Their record is #21,

          They just traded probably their two best pitchers.

          Explain the new path to relevancy.

          1
          Reply
        • CardsFan57

          2 months ago

          Scherzer has not been anywhere near their second best starter. Senga is right there with Verlander as their best pitcher. Scherzer is far behind.

          Reply
  65. dankyank

    2 months ago

    And just like that the Astros are the AL heavyweights again.

    1
    Reply
  66. Chris2215

    2 months ago

    Jim Crane is laughing his butt off right now. Not only did he end up getting Verlander for the most important part of the season…..the Mets are paying for it!!

    4
    Reply
    • NMK 2

      2 months ago

      Paying money? Sure. Paying in prospects/your future? Also yes.

      4
      Reply
      • Lrtexasman

        2 months ago

        And do you remember any of the “prospects” the Astros traded the first time to get him? Did they really damage their future by trading D. Cameron, Franklin Perez, and Jake Rogers? Hmm maybe winning a World Series by trading those three prospects was worth it in retrospect. And perhaps they did not trade away their future as they shoot for another WS championship and 4th WS appearance over the last five years.

        2
        Reply
        • Astros Hot Takes

          2 months ago

          which would be 5th World Series in 7 years – VERY few teams have EVER done that, in the long and august history of baseball

          Reply
    • Sourhaze

      2 months ago

      I dont think you understand how this works

      Reply
  67. HalosHeavenJJ

    2 months ago

    I’m very interested to see how much payroll the Mets purge at the deadline.

    And this purge should knock them down a tier or two on the luxury tax scale.

    1
    Reply
    • Astros Hot Takes

      2 months ago

      except, the offset money they send to Rangers & Astros counts toward Mets luxury tax calculation, Halo

      1
      Reply
      • HalosHeavenJJ

        2 months ago

        Yeah. The offset was more than I expected on Verlander.

        1
        Reply
        • Astros Hot Takes

          2 months ago

          I am now SO STOKED!!!!! Astros avoiding lux tax ….. and getting JV for 2 prospects and annual salary clocking in around 20 million

          1
          Reply
        • HalosHeavenJJ

          2 months ago

          As you should be.

          2
          Reply
    • JoeBrady

      2 months ago

      It will help, but I believe that they are substantially above the top level.

      2
      Reply
  68. desertdawg

    2 months ago

    So, the Mets get the top Minor leaguer in the Houston Astros minor league system, but where does he rate overall.

    1
    Reply
    • Milwaukee-2208

      2 months ago

      He rates really low. One of the worst players to ever put on a uniform. Rumor has it, he got fired from Cosco for assaulting a child with a peach

      1
      Reply
    • jvent

      2 months ago

      68 lol, but hey Mets don’t get any pitching prospects, dummies lol

      Reply
    • LGM1979

      2 months ago

      68 in mlb, 4 for the Mets

      Reply
  69. joec 3

    2 months ago

    As much as i like verlander, i hate they gave up Clifford and Gilbert

    4
    Reply
    • hiflew

      2 months ago

      Their top 4 prospects were all lefty hitting outfielders. They only have so many spots in the big league outfield. Good use of prospects as capital.

      3
      Reply
      • joec 3

        2 months ago

        That is true. Plus with Tucker and McCormick they will only need one of them. But man i thought Gilbert would be good

        1
        Reply
        • hiflew

          2 months ago

          Yeah it could bite them if only 1-2 of the 4 work out and it turns out to be one they traded. But those are the gambles in life. If prospects were guaranteed, no one would ever trade them.

          1
          Reply
  70. Slider_withcheese

    2 months ago

    Good riddance JV. You couldn’t cut it in NY. Go back to being a red neck and Astro. That’s where you belong.

    3
    Reply
    • Sdubs

      2 months ago

      Sounds like a trash Yankee fan that would kill for him to start in the Bronx. Speaking for Queens, Verlander was more than fine for us.

      1
      Reply
    • rct

      2 months ago

      He couldn’t cut it? He’s been pitching great.

      Reply
    • Sourhaze

      2 months ago

      I said he did pretty good

      Reply
  71. jvent

    2 months ago

    What about PITCHERS damn it lol maybe trade Vientos, Mauricio and a minor league SS for Dylan Cease lol

    1
    Reply
    • Chris G.

      2 months ago

      I think the problem is that teams are very reluctant to give up pitching prospects and young pitchers because there’s such a demand for them and they free agent costs are so high.

      Reply
      • flamingbagofpoop

        2 months ago

        and their attrition rate is astronomical.

        Reply
  72. YourDreamGM

    2 months ago

    All I heard is how bad Houstons farm is. Yet the make all the key trades they need to contend every year.

    2
    Reply
    • jjd002

      2 months ago

      And they rarely lose on trades. It happens every once in a while, but how many people can name the players that Detroit got for Verlander?

      2
      Reply
  73. mlbdodgerfan2015

    2 months ago

    Wow, seems like the Astros paid a steep price for Verlander, their. #1 and #4 prospects. I wonder if that means that the Mets ate a lot of the contract.

    2
    Reply
    • YourDreamGM

      2 months ago

      For sure. They didn’t want him for over 30 million after cy young world series. Definitely don’t want him for 43 and possibly another 2 years.

      Reply
    • desertdawg

      2 months ago

      Overall Gilbert is the 68th top prospect in the MLB pipeline and Clifford is not in the the top 100. Gilbert exected to be in the show in 2025 and Clifford in 2027.

      2
      Reply
    • JackStrawb

      2 months ago

      @mlbdodgerfan2015 Thing is, the Astros had probably the worst farm system of all 30 teams, so their #1 and 4 weren’t anything like, say, the Cubs #1 and 4.

      Drew Clifford and Ryan Gilbert translate on a more objective scale to FV (Future Value) 50 and 45 players, respectively. Clifford could be an impact regular, but Gilbert’s best projection is probably as the strong side (he’ll hit against RHP) of a RF platoon. A nice player to have, but probably nowhere near a star.

      The Mets’ farm system is ordinary enough and is particularly lacking in high-end prospects that Clifford is now (barely) their #1 prospect, though you could make the case that spot belongs instead to any one of Acuna, Ramirez, and Mauricio.

      Gilbert might even be up in 2024. I’d figure on a cup of coffee in September if all goes well, but a chaotically run team like the Mets could conceivably decide to flood Citi with prospects in 2024 with an eye to fending off criticism during a collapse / rebuilding year. Considering, too, service time manipulation they might just hold him out until May or June 2025. It’s the Mets so, who knows, really?

      Reply
      • mlbdodgerfan2015

        2 months ago

        @JackStrawb Yeah but that’s still way too much to trade away given Verlander’s remaining contract, especially if Verlander vests for 2025. Also, risk given his age. Looks like the Mets are eating up to $54mm if accurate.

        Reply
        • JackStrawb

          2 months ago

          Do we know how much salary the Mets are eating? It’s the Astros, so we know it’s “some, probably a lot,” but I haven’t seen a dollar figure anywhere.

          Reply
        • mlbdodgerfan2015

          2 months ago

          Mets paying $52.5mm of $93mm outstanding (assuming 2025 vests). Article updated. That’s quite a bit and why the Mets are getting the haul that they’re getting.

          Reply
  74. Arcia Later!!

    2 months ago

    THESE are the type of moves that scare me as a braves fan. None of the stuff the Mets did in the off-season really phased me much but dumping overpriced veterans to acquire young controllable top prospects is the way to truly build an organization.

    8
    Reply
    • birdonawaiverwire

      2 months ago

      I have been wondering this same thing. Did Cohen just decide to buy a farm system? Pay down a significant amount of veteran’s contract and get back the controllable prospects instead of tearing it all down and starting over bc I would assume next year’s offseason is going to buying top talent again.

      2
      Reply
      • Arcia Later!!

        2 months ago

        I don’t know if it was meant to happen but it has. Pay two veteran pitchers lots of money in hopes of competing. If they don’t, pay off some of the salary and grab top prospects. I know Mets fans are bummed they aren’t winning this season, but the long play that turned out as a result is cunning and right decision. Bully on the Mets FO of knowing when to call it a season and capitalize!

        2
        Reply
  75. TrillionaireTeamOperator

    2 months ago

    Think Cohen will try to off load Lindor’s remaining 8 years/$272.8M next?

    1
    Reply
    • brooklyn62

      2 months ago

      You mean Mr. Hit into a double play with RISP? Great Gucci glove, not so great clutch bat.

      Reply
    • JackStrawb

      2 months ago

      Given the deals handed out last offseason he could probably find a taker even at that price (or by sending along a couple of decent prospects to ease the acquirer’s pain), but the Mets don’t actually have a SS waiting in the minors (Mauricio is the answer to very few questions), which would be embarrassing.

      Keep Lindor and Alonso and people will probably keep coming to Citi even though 2024 is likely to be an ugly year. I think given the return (the lack of a prospect likely to become a solid MLB regular), even trading Verlander was a mistake. If they could have gotten a single FV 55 or 60 player instead of a 50 and 45, it would have been a move worth making, but Eppler correctly does not trust his own judgment, so like most weak talent evaluators he thinks that getting two guys instead of one improves his chances at snatching the brass ring.

      Reply
  76. The_Porcupine

    2 months ago

    How good are the prodpects going to the Mets? Being a top prospect in a light Astros farm system doesnt mean that someone ia a great talent.

    Reply
    • jasonmarbach

      2 months ago

      Gilbert is a consensus top-50 prospect in the game. It’s an outrageous fleecing by the Mets

      Reply
    • JackStrawb

      2 months ago

      @The_Porcupine Drew Gilbert’s pretty good. He might stick in CF and he’s an impressive hitter, though he’s struggling now in AA—but that’s not a surprise given he still only has about 400 PA in pro ball. By struggling, I mean his OPS is .713, not .550. Put him in the bucket with Vientos and Mauricio. He’s also in the wrong organization to figure out what needs figuring out. Consider that the Mets had Baty, Vientos, and Mauricio for a combined 15 years and couldn’t figure out how to teach ANY of them to field 3B.

      Ryan Clifford’s… respectable. He’s the kind of prospect you want 10 of, in case one or two pan out. His peak projection is probably as the strong side of a platoon in RF, but there’s a small chance he’ll be better than that, maybe the Mets starting 1Bman in 2028.

      Reply
  77. JoeKelleyfightclub

    2 months ago

    I don’t know how a big a mystery the Mets offseason will be. Theyll overpay a bunch of really old players who will underperform and the team will suck. Wash, rinse, repeat.

    Reply
  78. AgeeHarrelsonJones

    2 months ago

    Ryan Clifford will step in for Pete before 2025

    1
    Reply
    • Bucsfan4ever

      2 months ago

      And Clifford is actually a nice guy, unlike Alonso who is a jerk

      Reply
  79. YourDreamGM

    2 months ago

    Doubt it but should try.

    Reply
  80. Tomas7

    2 months ago

    Mets fans are getting screwed. No one talks about the loyal fan base that’s there day in and day out. As I have said before, I went through this many in Oakland and never gets easier, this why we can have free agent fans as well, as hard as it is.

    Reply
  81. Oscar Gamble

    2 months ago

    Ryan Clifford also going to the Mets according to MLB Network

    Reply
  82. norcalblue

    2 months ago

    How much dough is going with Verlander to Houston?

    2
    Reply
    • norcalblue

      2 months ago

      The Mets really bent over in the last week, giving away Scherzer and Verlander. This is a huge amount of money. $54 million going with Verlander to Houston. Sheesh, so much for valuing Verlander differently than Scherzer.

      Astros did very well unless that prospect becomes an all star for years, good trade for them.

      3
      Reply
  83. King Floch

    2 months ago

    Bigger disaster:

    The Titanic or the 2023 New York Mets?

    4
    Reply
    • Yanks2

      2 months ago

      Yankees

      Reply
  84. alwaysgo4two

    2 months ago

    The Mets aren’t going anywhere and they get 2 decent OF prospects, not to mention some overpaid salary relief. I wouldn’t complain if I was a Mets fan….other than about the season of course.

    5
    Reply
    • JackStrawb

      2 months ago

      You wouldn’t complain about a chaotic front office that’s fundamentally clueless and can’t hire anything resembling solid FO talent? Jeez. That’s not baseball, hombre.

      Reply
  85. angryaggie

    2 months ago

    I think a temporary 6-man rotation will help Valdez and Javier even more than Brown and France. Those guys (not to mention most of the pen) look pretty gassed and could use a reprieve prior to ramping up for the playoffs.

    1
    Reply
  86. showman

    2 months ago

    Terrible trade. Eppler gets fleeced once again. The sharks smell blood and are circling the waters

    2
    Reply
    • jasonmarbach

      2 months ago

      Lol what

      2
      Reply
    • Sourhaze

      2 months ago

      That’s your take on every mets trade. Everyone

      Such immature people here who wanna troll and not talk baseball

      1
      Reply
    • JackStrawb

      2 months ago

      One of Cohen and Eppler’s many shortcomings are that, since they’re terrible talent evaluators (see their total inability to build an adequate bullpen despite having the largest payroll in the game, by far) rather than aim for the best prospect they can get for elite talent, they tend to get two weaker prospects and hope one pans out. That’s a terrible strategy given talent in baseball is a very steep pyramid.

      They did this with Robertson (and a dozen clubs were interested, so they had their pick of packages), and they’re doing it again with Verlander, though given JV’s NTC it’s hard to know whether there was an FV 55 in LA to be gotten for Verlander. Still, it’s how they conduct business. Cohen can’t move on to a competent FO too soon.

      Reply
  87. Camden453

    2 months ago

    Should have got more for Verlander than two chase rate/obp outfielders without much power. They should have had Andrew Taylor added in

    1
    Reply
  88. CoachBlake

    2 months ago

    If we were gonna sell the farm, could it have at least been for Dylan Cease

    2
    Reply
  89. jasonmarbach

    2 months ago

    What an abysmal, awful trade for the Astros. Gonna go down as one of the worst trades in franchise history. I suppose the fans won’t care if they win another World Series, but that won’t make it anything other than an awful trade.

    2
    Reply
    • RockinRobin

      2 months ago

      I was thinking somewhat of the same. I think the Mets did well on this trade.

      2
      Reply
    • showman

      2 months ago

      Terrible trade for the Mets. Neither of these guys is likely to be a big league regular ever. Astros better be paying the whole contract if the return is this light

      1
      Reply
      • RockinRobin

        2 months ago

        I think they weren’t gong to get much out of Verlander. Guess we will see.

        Reply
        • JackStrawb

          2 months ago

          They weren’t going to ‘get much’ from last year’s Cy Young winner who currently has a 3.15 ERA, with a 1.46 ERA in his last 6 games? His ERA+ in 2023 even with the rocky start sits at 131, or a little more than a rock solid HOFer’s ERA+, career, would be.

          1
          Reply
        • RockinRobin

          2 months ago

          Not this year. Hey, prove me wrong Verlander!

          Reply
    • YourDreamGM

      2 months ago

      2 great outfield prospects. Should have went rental. Painful prospect cost.

      1
      Reply
    • JoeBrady

      2 months ago

      I suppose the fans won’t care if they win another World Series,
      =======================
      Yeah, that’s, you know, kind of the purpose of the whole thing.

      1
      Reply
      • Astros Hot Takes

        2 months ago

        purpose of the whole thing is to win multiple World Series, or at least get there more often than not, year after year after year after year.

        I’m an Astros fan, and i’ve gotten pleasingly used to this 🙂

        Reply
  90. californiatribesman

    2 months ago

    So…who’s pitching for the Mets next year????

    2
    Reply
    • rct

      2 months ago

      What’s your fastball like?

      3
      Reply
  91. branderson925

    2 months ago

    Cy Young candidate Framber?

    8th in ERA
    12th in Wins
    14th in WHIP

    He’s gonna have to go on a crazy run to win the Cy.

    Reply
  92. Bucsfan4ever

    2 months ago

    Ryan Clifford is a great prospect. I have seen him play in the minors several times. He is a hoss for sure. He could be launching rockets out of Citi Field in a couple of years

    2
    Reply
  93. Doom & Bloom

    2 months ago

    Great move for the Astros. Red Sox’s hope of a wild card diminishes the less they get involved.

    Reply
    • JoeBrady

      2 months ago

      True dat. I was hoping to catch one or the other. If I had to find a silver lining it’s that a) they can both beat up on Seattle who is still in it, and b) they can both beat up on each other.

      Reply
  94. slowcurve

    2 months ago

    Watched Drew Gilbert mash an absolute no doubter this season in A+ ball in Asheville. Mets got a stud.

    2
    Reply
  95. alwaysgo4two

    2 months ago

    Well ..was I ever wrong! NY fans being NY fans. Still thinking that they had a chance this year. Really?

    Reply
  96. YankeesBleacherCreature

    2 months ago

    If you told me on Opening Day that both Max and JV would be shipped out by the Mets by the trade deadline, I would’ve called you crazy. Baseball is so fun to watch!

    3
    Reply
  97. justme789

    2 months ago

    Has anyone credible (not Nightengale or Gomez) reported how much of Verlander’s contract the Mets are paying?

    1
    Reply
  98. rickoppelt

    2 months ago

    Mets fans say hello to shohei 10 years 550 million

    1
    Reply
    • mlbnyyfan

      2 months ago

      Mets should of demanded Forest Whitley in the deal if not tried for Bobby Miller on the Dodgers

      Reply
  99. Greet the Mets

    2 months ago

    So the Mets have a real dilemma here. They need to replace 3 starters now and will push hard for one of those to be Ohtani. Negotiations will be long and they may miss out on other top free agents as a result, in which case they might have to trade some of those prospects for pitching. It may work out but they’ve painted themselves into a corner with this move

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    • showman

      2 months ago

      Ohtani and Yamamoto to Mets is already basically a done deal. That’s what Eppler is here for

      Reply
    • JackStrawb

      2 months ago

      @Greet The Mets Given they didn’t get anyone special in the trade, I have to agree. It smells (reeks) very much like they (a) know they’re not getting Ohtani, and (b) they’re going to punt 2024 though Eppler will continue to lie to us about how this wasn’t a fire sale, and so forth.

      Presumably they won’t trade prospects for pitching unless it’s from surplus, but as long as they don’t panic, it’s reasonable to back off and wait until the 2024-25 offseason to reload. If they can sign a young ace for 2024 and figure he’ll still be in his prime when the Mets are contenders again, they might go that route. So, pay through the nose for a young ace, add a Quintana-like SP for the #4 slot, fake a #5 (again), maybe bring in someone of the Trevor Williams or Seth Lugo tier in order to keep David Peterson off the mound.

      Then hope Diaz comes 90% of the way back, hope their new front office can build a bullpen, play the position player prospects and find out which ones will make the 26-man roster in 2025 while finding out if Marte and McNeil have to be replaced.

      Dealing Verlander gives them an excuse to punt 2024. It wasn’t the worst idea given they weren’t likely to contend in any case.

      Reply
      • JoeBrady

        2 months ago

        Nice analysis. I’m surprised that so many Mets’ fans are okay with punting 2024.

        Reply
  100. jasonmarbach

    2 months ago

    Not sure which is more embarrassing to read: Astros fans claiming this trade is a big win, or anyone who’s claiming that Eppler got fleeced. What an absolute slaying by the Mets here

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    • JackStrawb

      2 months ago

      @jason marbach Pretty sure the most embarrassing part of this is the Mets front office posting under a nom de plume and patting themselves on the back.

      Claiming that getting a 45 and a 50 FV prospect for the best SP on the market (so basically Mark Vientos and Mike Vasil) at the deadline is “an absolute slaying” is an evaluation so grotesque only someone being paid, someone born without the shame gene, could possibly post it.

      Shoo.

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  101. DanUgglasRing

    2 months ago

    This is not a rebuild.

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    • JackStrawb

      2 months ago

      Correct. It’s a rebuild being set on fire. A fire sale rebuild.

      —It’s not a bad strategy, really. The Mets failed utterly in 2023, and instead of a payroll approaching $400m in 2024 just to contend, by dealing Verlander they’re giving themselves every excuse to pause, play upper level prospects, see if McNeil and Marte are truly toast, and go from there.

      Do the Mets KNOW this is their strategy? Impossible to say. They’re so chaotic they may simply be continuing this reeling from pillar to post out of reflex. Still, it opens up a few more possibilities that wouldn’t have been present had they hung onto JV.

      Good luck to him in Houston. He’d been a lot of fun to watch pitching with the Mets in his last 6-8 starts.

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  102. denistaylor

    2 months ago

    As the dog returns to his vomit…

    Reply
  103. jasonmarbach

    2 months ago

    Empirically, demonstrably wrong and ignorant. You’ve got a 40 year old pitcher with health issues whose peripherals are very clear about his steep decline curve, versus a consensus top 50 prospect in Gilbert (who you clearly need to actually learn something about) and another very good prospect in Clifford. If the deal was structured around Clifford as a centerpiece, most people who actually know ball look at this trade and say “okay, sure, pretty good deal for both teams.” As it is, this a full blown, outrageous overpay by the Astros, and an incredible fleecing by Eppler and the Mets.

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    • jasonmarbach

      2 months ago

      This comment was supposed to be a response to the unserious clown called “showman”

      Reply
    • Lrtexasman

      2 months ago

      Hahah. You prob thought the same when we traded Cameron, Perez, and Franklin for Verlander the first time. I am stunned at how many fans fail to realize that prospects are a commodity. Sometimes it makes sense to hold it and sometimes it makes sense to sell one commodity for another one. A good GM is not married to prospects out of the sake of loyalty.

      Reply
  104. showman

    2 months ago

    Horrible trade keeps getting worse. Mets paying half the contract or more and getting mid prospects

    Reply
    • Persi W

      2 months ago

      How are the Astros #1 and #4 prospects, mid?

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      • showman

        2 months ago

        Weak system, neither guy seems likely to be a big league regular.

        Reply
      • jasonmarbach

        2 months ago

        Ignore him, he’s just a troll who isn’t even pretending to know ball

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      • jasonmarbach

        2 months ago

        This comment was supposed to be a response to the unserious clown called “showman”

        Reply
    • jjd002

      2 months ago

      This was much better that anyone realistically thought they could get for Verlander.

      Reply
  105. ABraves23

    2 months ago

    The Braves were wasting their time on the phone about Verlander, when AA could have been in other negotiations However, the Mets paid $54M for the 2 Astros prospects. That is how much they sent along with Verlander to get 2 prospects! 54 million dollars. Robison Cano is also waiting on a Mets payday

    Reply
    • jwt421

      2 months ago

      It’s a sunk cost. That money was gone the minute Verlander signed his contract. The Mets traded an asset they no longer needed for two prospects who if they pan out, come with six years of control at minimal additional cost. Not to mention the $54 million you cited is if he vests next year. If not, the price is lower.

      Reply
    • JoeBrady

      2 months ago

      when AA could have been in other negotiations
      =============================
      Like the Braves only have one phone line, and nobody else in the FO that can pick up the phone and say “please wait”?

      Reply
  106. Screamer22

    2 months ago

    The Astros now have Verlander for $17m a year…craziness.

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    • filihok

      2 months ago

      Plus whatever value they gave up in the prospect.s

      Reply
      • Screamer22

        2 months ago

        The prospects arecertainly a cost, but $17 mil a year for 2 1/3 years of a championship window is huge.

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    • Astros Hot Takes

      2 months ago

      Screamer has nailed the greatest aspect of this ^^^^^

      Reply
  107. Edp007

    2 months ago

    Republican Texas conspiracy to keep NYC in the crapper lol

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    • Rsox

      2 months ago

      NYC doesn’t need any help, they do just fine on their own

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  108. R.D.

    2 months ago

    This is really interesting, by spending a shitload of money the Mets have really retooled their farm system.

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    • Cohen's _Wallet

      2 months ago

      @R.D.

      Shhhh don’t say it too loud, most people don’t get that part. They can’t even get past lolmets LMAO.

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      • Rsox

        2 months ago

        It doesn’t look like a genius move when you spend what could amount to well over $70 million to buy 2 prospects. Don’t try to sell it like its anything but waiving the white flag

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        • Cohen's _Wallet

          2 months ago

          @Rsox

          Don’t know how much whiter the flag has gotta be to deem it obvious. If you can’t see what just transpired here then there’s really no point in explaining. Time is your best friend, you’ll figure it out soon enough.

          Reply
    • CKinSTL

      2 months ago

      @R,D, – perhaps they are making the best of a really terrible situation, agreed… but they are still in a really terrible situation though.

      Between Verlander and Scherzer, the Mets could be spending more than $120 million (including the luxury tax penalties) to obtain these three prospects.. That is a huge sum to pay for prospects. For reference.. That’s more than the combined signing bonuses for the top 20 selections in the 2023 draft. That’s more than a third of the total bonus pool for all 30 MLB teams – combined.

      On top of that, the money they are paying to Scherzer and Verlander will also hurt their future draft positioning, assuming they continue to be over the luxury tax threshold.

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  109. brooklyn62

    2 months ago

    Preach it brother! I do not like Eppler at all. Gilbert will be a Citifield fave,and Clifford can mash. Mets farm system is deplete of bats. Look at the Mets this year- one of the big issues is that very few times anyone has hit in the clutch with RISP. I haven’t heard of any money involved so if it’s truly Verlander for Gilbert/Clifford, the Astros gave up alot! Eppler did a fleecing.

    Reply
  110. Screamer22

    2 months ago

    I’ll take JV for $17 mil a year. Doesn’t seem like a fleece

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  111. phenomenalajs

    2 months ago

    Ridiculous to pay down that much. They should have kept him if they planned to compete next year.

    Reply
    • filihok

      2 months ago

      The Mets thought the $52.5 million (potentially) was better spent on Gilbert and Clifford than on Verlander.

      I might agree.

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  112. YourDreamGM

    2 months ago

    2 top outfield prospects. Dumped $. Minimize risk. Probably some billionaire write off I don’t know about.

    I wouldn’t want to part with these 2. Rather got a rental. Maybe Houston knows they aren’t going to be anything great and found the perfect taker.

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    • Lrtexasman

      2 months ago

      Hahahaha. Houston only paying 29 million for 2 and 1/3 seasons for Verlander. Bahahahaha. Mets paying around 57 million. That’s a lot of coin for 2 prospects outside the MLB top 100.

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      • filihok

        2 months ago

        Well, the Astros are paying $40.5 million (potentially) for Verlander.

        PLUS the value of the two prospects.

        As I just commented, I wouldn’t have made the deal from the buying Verlander side.

        Reply
      • YourDreamGM

        2 months ago

        MLB top 100 is asleep.

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  113. DBH1969

    2 months ago

    The pay down on this… wow. Just WOW

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  114. filihok

    2 months ago

    oof.

    Better the Astros than my team

    Verlander has very average numbers this year. Below average K rate (94 K+). A bit better than average BB rate. (93 BB+). He gives up a lot of fly balls (114 FB+) which leads to a league average xFIP (99).

    Generously, let’s give him 1 WAR this season, 3 WAR next season and 2 WAR in 2025. That’s 6 WAR. Say that’s worth (6 X 8) $48 million (ignoring and Present Value adjustments). The Astros are paying, potentially, , $40.5 million. That leaves $7.5 million in surplus value.

    The value of the two prospects well exceeds that.

    Astros must think Verlander is better than I do. or the prospects aren’t likely to produce much.

    Reply
    • mlbnyyfan

      2 months ago

      Astros and Rangers playing chess at this trade deadline. Angels are playing checkers. Angel fans say goodbye to Ohtani.

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      • filihok

        2 months ago

        What?

        Reply
    • Edp007

      2 months ago

      The Astros think Verlander is better than you do. But hey , who’s kidding who ?, what do they know compared to you. ?

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      • filihok

        2 months ago

        Sure.

        Reply
    • Astros Hot Takes

      2 months ago

      Verlander is MUCH better than you think he is – I will add “IMO” here, because you never know with arms – but Verlander is the guy most likely to still be a top ten ACE at 44 years old. There are few things I’m more of a student of than the careers of 200+ win pitchers. Verlander is like a Randy Johnson arm with a Greg Maddux brain.

      Reply
      • filihok

        2 months ago

        Why do you believe that?

        What in his performance this year makes you think that?

        I listed my reasons why I think he’s not that great, why do you think he is?

        Reply
        • Astros Hot Takes

          2 months ago

          Because he is Justin Verlander – he’s built differently than lesser pitchers, including Scherzer. He is ANY of the 300 game winners since Warren Spahn. I’ve watched him pitch innumerable times, I’ve listened to him talk a ton. He wants to get to 300, he wants chanpionship rings, he wants to climb up the other leader charts, he wants to pitch until he is at least 45, he is smart, he is dogged, he is determined, and he’ll find a way, so long as his arm doesn’t fall off.

          He has character, in the baseball sense. He NEVER quits. He Wins.

          That’s why.

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        • Edp007

          2 months ago

          A true bulldog. Hof pitcher. Hopes he gets to 300

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        • filihok

          2 months ago

          So, no actual reason. Got it

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        • Astros Hot Takes

          2 months ago

          actually, those are reasons that smart front offices weigh VERY heavily, and not-smart front offices dismiss as fairy dust

          however, here are his last 7 starts – how many pitchers have been this good since June 26?

          Jun 26 to Jul 30, 2023 NYM 7 7 0 0 5-2 W-L:4-1 42.1 27 9 7 18 37 1 1 1.49 3.18 171 .178 .269 .230 .499 .228 705 64%

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        • Edp007

          2 months ago

          He’s pitching very well right now. Exactly what you want.

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        • filihok

          2 months ago

          Those are a bunch of numbers. Thank you for sharing them.

          Reply
        • Astros Hot Takes

          2 months ago

          fili, you’re gonna wind up taking the L on this – stop with the blowhard stuff.

          In EVERY Verlander thread for last 4 days, I have been proven correct in my assessments – go read ’em if you want; several were in response to you. About this thing, I know what I’m talking about.

          Reply
        • filihok

          2 months ago

          What is one example of you being “proven correct in your assessments”?

          One?

          Reply
        • filihok

          2 months ago

          I mean, I’d rather have a player who pitched well all season, not just the last few games.

          Reply
        • Astros Hot Takes

          2 months ago

          everything I said about Astros having sufficient farm to get anybody
          everything I said about the cash offset we’d need, though that came in WAY over my expectations
          everything I said about no Chas, no France, no Brown going back to Mets

          that’s all what wound up happening.

          Because I’m very careful about my comments, I’ve studied Astros methods for years, and sometimes I can kinda think the way they think (though usually they’re WAY above my paygrade)

          I’m also right about Elias & the Orioles, because, they are, basically, Astros Jr.

          Reply
        • Astros Hot Takes

          2 months ago

          I’m sorry, fili, but I prefer the front office we have, to you.

          Reply
        • filihok

          2 months ago

          A-ht

          “everything I said about Astros having sufficient farm to get anybody”
          I mean, you weren’t proven correct in that. Logically, that would be impossible. The Astros didn’t get, say, Ohtani or Acuna, so you can’t logically say that you had the ability to get them.

          “everything I said about the cash offset we’d need, though that came in WAY over my expectations”
          What did you say? Not exactly going out on a limb to say “the Mets will eat some of Verlander’s contract to move him”. Pretty much everyone knew that.

          “everything I said about no Chas, no France, no Brown going back to Mets”
          Ok. Could that because, I dunno, Verlander isn’t that good. Could Verlander not being as good as you think be the reason that the Mets paid down more of his salary than you anticipated?

          Looks like I’m being proven correct. The Verlander wasn’t worth the best prospects and the Mets had to eat tons of salary to move him. Thanks for pointing that out.

          Reply
        • Astros Hot Takes

          2 months ago

          never mind

          Reply