The New York Mets entered the 2026 season with high hopes after a blockbuster trade for Milwaukee Brewers ace Freddy Peralta—but so far, things have gone sideways in a hurry.

After a disappointing end to the 2025 campaign, the Mets made a splash last offseason by acquiring Peralta and fellow right-hander Tobias Myers from the Brewers. In exchange, they sent top prospects Brandon Sproat and Jett Williams to Milwaukee. The move was seen as a major win for New York, adding a proven frontline starter to a rotation in need of a jolt.

Peralta has been a dominant force on the mound for years, posting a career 3.60 ERA over nine big-league seasons. He's known not just for his electric stuff, but also for being a respected leader in the clubhouse. When the trade went down, many assumed an extension was just around the corner. But Mets President of Baseball Operations David Stearns quickly poured cold water on that idea.

"I'm not going to comment on any sort of extension or contract talks," Stearns told reporters, leaving Peralta's long-term future in Queens very much uncertain.

Now, with the Mets stumbling to an MLB-worst 12-22 start, those questions are only growing louder. Injuries have piled up, and the early hole is proving tough to climb out of. That has already sparked trade speculation—and Peralta's name is right at the top of the list.

As FanSided's Robert Murray noted, "Peralta is a prime trade chip. He's an elite clubhouse presence and someone who is highly regarded by his teammates. He's a high-end pitcher... and if the Mets want to get something in return in a potential lost season, then trading the right-hander should be on the table."

With an expiring contract and a slow start that nobody in New York expected, Peralta could become one of the most sought-after arms on the trade market. For a team that came into the season with World Series aspirations, the reality is setting in fast: the Mets may have to decide between building for the future or chasing a miracle turnaround.