Mets’ Justin Verlander Takes Hard Stance On Whether He Wants To Be Traded
There has been plenty of trade speculation surrounding Justin Verlander due to the New York Mets disappointing season.
But as Verlander told The Athletic on Tuesday, he still believes in this organization.
“I remain committed to trying to win a championship here,” Verlander told The Athletic.
According to Verlander, he's not thinking about his no-trade clause with two weeks to go until the August 1 trade deadline.
But there is no denying that the future Hall of Famer is a trade candidate as a result of his contract (two-years, $86.7 million with a $35 million vesting option for 2025).
With Steve Cohen's money, the Mets could potentially pay off some of Verlander's deal in exchange for top prospects if they choose to trade him. However, they will need to decide whether they're better off trying to compete next year with Verlander on the roster while also evaluating potential replacements.
Verlander, 40, is certainly frustrated with his inconsistent performance this year (3.72 ERA, 4.03 FIP) coming off a Cy Young Award winning season with the Houston Astros.
That said, the three-time Cy Young Award winner still thinks this team can win in New York even if it doesn't happen this year.
And Verlander believes the Mets can turn things around and make history.
"You don’t know what happens from this. It could be one of the best turnarounds in the history of baseball. Maybe. Still could be."
Although Verlander and Max Scherzer have both had up-and-down seasons, the Mets might not be able to bring in better options from the outside for next year.
For that, they're likely better off holding onto their two aces at the trade deadline and running it back with them atop the starting rotation next season.
But with his name attached to trade speculation, Verlander is not thinking about it and is committed to winning with the Mets.
