New York Mets: 5 Players That Could Be Traded At The Deadline
Mar 9, 2015; Port St. Lucie, FL, USA; New York Mets starting pitcher Zack Wheeler (45) throws against the Miami Marlins during the spring training baseball game at Tradition Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Barr-USA TODAY Sports
Yes Wheeler is currently on the DL, but if the Mets dangle him in trade talks they could land the impact bat they desperately need. It would be a risk for any team that would trade for Wheeler, as he is recovering from Tommy John surgery, but if he comes back healthy he has the potential to be the front of the rotation arm for a team.
Wheeler is only 25-years old right now, and showed the last two seasons the front end stuff scouts raved about. While his record isn’t very strong at 18-16 in 49 starts, the Mets weren’t very good during those years so its tough to judge him on that. Instead, taking a look at some of his numbers paints a better pitcher. He is able to keep the ball in the park, giving up 0.8 HR/9 and an 8.1H/9.
Also, Wheeler was able to up his strikeout numbers and lower his walk ones from his rookie season to second year. In his first time with the Mets, Wheeler posted 4.1 BB/9 and 7.6 K/9, but improved them to 3.8 and 9.1 in his second season. While they may be small increases, they are increases nonetheless as he is heading the right direction. Walks is really the only thing that is holding Wheeler back currently, as the rest of his stats are strong for such a young player.
More From Empire Writes Back: Could Zack Wheeler Be The Pitcher To Trade?
While Wheeler’s value is probably rather low at this point, and rightfully so, the Mets could potentially package him with other pieces to try and land a difference making bat. He was a top prospect with the Mets, and in his time with the major league club he has done nothing to change that.
There are a number of GM’s that are leading teams at different points of their rebuild. A team that is on the verge of being a playoff team could be the one to target Wheeler, as he will be out until next June or July but is still a player that is young enough to build around. Will there be a GM willing to pull the trigger and take a chance on Wheeler while his stock is low?
The better question may be if Sandy Alderson and the Mets are willing to move Wheeler at this time, as they would seemingly be blowing up something before getting a chance to see what it is made of? It would be a risky bet for both parties, but one that will have to be seriously considered if an intriguing offer comes their way.
Next: Streaking Lefty