Mets Looking To Buy, Angels Shop Closing Pitcher Ahead of Trade Deadline

With the All-Star break looming within the next week, one date is circled on the calendar: July 30, 2024 – when the MLB’s trade deadline is. Across the coming days, we will see teams make executive decisions regarding their rosters. Two major trades occurred before the deadline: Luis Arraez was moved from the Marlins to the Padres in May, while Aaron Civale was sent to the Brewers from the Rays on July 4.

The Mets are 2.5 games back of the Cardinals for the third wild card spot as of July 5, 2024. New York went on an insane tear to get them to this position, going 14-6 since June 11. This run is highlighted by Grimace’s first pitch on June 12, which some believe contributed to the Mets’ turning of the ship. The Mets owned the MLB’s best record in June, going 16-8.

Look for the Mets to shop the market for some pitching – notable names include Erick Fedde and Chris Bassitt. Despite wanting to buy, the Mets could sell as they have three starters on the last year of their contracts while relievers Adam Ottaviano and Jake Diekman are regressing. Jose Quintana, Sean Manaea or Luis Severino could be moved to a team that is also contending.

The Angels sit at 36-50 and fourth place in the AL West. Los Angeles is taking offers for their closer, Carlos Estevez. Thus far, Estevez has pitched 27 innings and has a 3.00 ERA, in addition to striking out 27 batters and walking three. The closer won the American League’s Reliever of the Month award in June. Interest is pouring in as the Yankees, Royals, Padres, Mets and Cardinals are rumored to have interest in the right-handed hurler. Estevez is owed just $3 million for the rest of 2024, so teams need to commit just over $2 million to cater to the pitcher’s salary – that alone is a bargain for a top reliever on the market.

Article by Christian Bongiorno