The New York Mets find themselves in a tough spot. With a disappointing 15-25 start to the 2026 season, the team is already looking toward the trade deadline as a chance to reset. While selling off pieces might not be the plan fans hoped for, it's becoming a realistic path forward.

One name that's generating buzz is right-hander Clay Holmes. While many eyes are on Freddy Peralta as the rotation's headline trade piece, Bleacher Report's Joel Reuter suggests the Mets should strike while Holmes' value is at its peak. And honestly, the numbers back that up.

Holmes has been nothing short of brilliant this season. Through eight starts, he's posted a sparkling 1.86 ERA—good for second among qualified National League starters. That kind of performance doesn't go unnoticed, especially when a pitcher is heading toward free agency. Holmes signed a two-year, $26 million deal with the Mets, but he has a $12 million player option for 2027. Given how well he's pitching, it's widely expected he'll opt out and test the open market.

That makes him an obvious trade candidate for a Mets team that's struggling to stay afloat. As Reuter put it, "his stock may never be higher." The Mets aren't likely to turn this ship around in 2026, and with one of the worst records in baseball, moving expiring contracts for future assets just makes sense.

One potential landing spot? The Chicago Cubs, who are desperate for starting pitching help. A deal could bring back a solid prospect haul for New York, helping them rebuild for the future while giving Holmes a chance to compete for a contender.

For Mets fans, it's a tough pill to swallow. But in a season that's quickly slipping away, trading Holmes sooner rather than later could be the smartest move the front office makes all year.