Mets’ Potential Blockbuster Trade Could Bring $75 Million Ace to New York…
The New York Mets are set to begin the season without key pitchers Frankie Montas and Sean Manaea, creating a major void in their rotation. Under owner Steve Cohen, the Mets have shown a willingness to spend big on star talent, and a recent trade proposal from *FanSided’s* Zach Pressnell suggests they could target St. Louis Cardinals ace Sonny Gray.
**Proposed Trade:**
– **Mets receive:** RHP Sonny Gray
– **Cardinals receive:** RHP Nolan McLean (Mets’ No. 5 prospect) and OF Drew Gilbert (Mets’ No. 11 prospect)
Pressnell believes the Cardinals, currently looking to reshape their roster, could be a perfect trade partner. “St. Louis is reportedly in rebuild mode, which makes Gray a likely trade candidate. While acquiring him would be costly for the Mets, it would still be more affordable than landing pitchers like Sandy Alcántara or Dylan Cease,” he explained.
Although giving up two top-30 prospects is a significant price, the Mets would be securing a proven ace to bolster their rotation. Gray, a three-time All-Star, signed a three-year, $75 million contract in 2024. He posted a 3.84 ERA last season, but in 2022, he maintained an impressive 2.79 ERA across 32 starts. Over his last 84 starts, he has recorded a 3.24 ERA.
According to Pressnell, the trade benefits both teams: “The Mets would acquire a frontline starter while keeping key prospects with a clear path to the majors. Meanwhile, the Cardinals would shed salary and gain two promising young players.”
Gray remains under contract for two more seasons, with a $30 million club option for 2027. If the Mets make this move, their rotation—once fully healthy—would feature Gray, Manaea, Montas, Clay Holmes, and Kodai Senga, strengthening their pitching depth for a competitive season.
