The New York Mets' season is quickly unraveling, and with the trade deadline approaching, other teams are starting to circle like vultures. According to a report from MLB Trade Rumors' Steve Adams, via Bruce Levine of 670 The Score, the Chicago Cubs have expressed interest in trading for Mets starter Freddy Peralta.

On the surface, this rumor has some logic to it. The Cubs have been off to a surprisingly strong start despite having multiple starters on the injured list, so it makes sense that they'd be proactive in exploring the starting pitching market. Including Peralta in those conversations is also understandable—he's been a reliable 5-6 inning pitcher for the Mets, but that's become a problem given New York's already overextended bullpen.

However, this is where things get complicated. The Mets have a deep prospect pipeline, with arms like Jonah Tong and Jack Wenninger waiting in the wings. Tong, in particular, impressed during his late-season stint with the big league club, and if the Mets continue to slide, it might make more sense to let him learn on the job rather than trade away established talent.

The biggest reason this rumor feels far-fetched? The Mets already gave up young starter Brandon Sproat—a significant asset who's starting to find his groove in a long relief and spot starter role—to acquire Peralta. They also parted with prospect Jett Williams, who could have a bright future with the Milwaukee Brewers. It's simply too soon to give up on Peralta, especially if the Mets' offense can find its rhythm and give him the run support he needs to go on a hot streak.

Expect more of these trade rumors to surface as the deadline approaches. Most will likely focus on names like Clay Holmes and the struggling David Peterson, and there may even be a team willing to take a chance on Sean Manaea. But for now, don't expect the Cubs—or anyone else—to pry Peralta away from Queens just yet.