Mets Acquire Brewers’ Ace Freddy Peralta, Strengthen Starting Rotation: Sources
The New York Mets have bolstered their starting rotation with the acquisition of Milwaukee Brewers’ ace Freddy Peralta. This trade, confirmed by league sources, occurred on Wednesday night and highlights a significant offseason for the Mets. Peralta, 29, signed a team-friendly deal in 2020, ensuring he would be a valuable asset during his final year before free agency.
Mets’ Trade Details
In exchange for Peralta, the Brewers receive pitchers Brandon Sproat and Jett Williams, both ranked as top prospects. This move follows the Mets’ strategy to enhance their rotation by securing a starter capable of performing at the top level.
Mets’ Rotation Overview
- Nolan McLean
- Clay Holmes
- Sean Manaea
- David Peterson
- Kodai Senga
- Jonah Tong (depth)
- Christian Scott (depth)
Freddy Peralta’s Contract Situation
Freddy Peralta is currently in the final year of a five-year, $15.5 million extension he signed in March 2020. The Brewers exercised two team options totaling $8 million each, making him a cost-effective name among pitchers. Although Peralta was not a high-profile prospect, he has evolved into a top-tier starter.
Brewers’ Financial Challenges
The Milwaukee Brewers have faced financial constraints throughout the past decade, lacking a top-15 payroll. In February 2024, they traded ace Corbin Burnes, another key player approaching free agency, to the Baltimore Orioles for young talents. These moves indicate their struggle to balance competitiveness with financial limitations.
Peralta’s Performance and Career Highlights
- 2.70 ERA in the 2025 season
- Two-time All-Star
- 5th in the NL Cy Young Award voting
- Highest K/9 rate behind only Dylan Cease and Blake Snell
- Consistent improvement in velocity, averaging 94.8 mph
Although Peralta’s career began with the Seattle Mariners in 2013, he became a Brewers fixture following a trade for Adam Lind in late 2015. He has proven to be an integral part of their rotation since 2021.
Brewers’ Future Prospects
Despite trading Peralta, the Brewers continue to demonstrate a commitment to building a strong young rotation. They hope to rely on emerging talents like Jacob Misiorowski and existing pitchers such as Brandon Woodruff and Robert Gasser. This approach reflects a broader strategy to remain competitive while managing budgetary constraints.
As the offseason progresses, the implications of this trade will resonate throughout both the Mets’ and Brewers’ lineups, reshaping the landscape of the upcoming season.
