To say that the 2025 MLB season was a disappointment for the New York Mets would be a major understatement.
After signing superstar outfielder Juan Soto to a mega contract last offseason, the Mets were expecting to be a World Series contender in the National League. When all was said and done, the team only mustered up an 83-79 record and missed the postseason.
Heading into the offseason, improving the starting rotation was a major priority. At this point in time, New York has been unable to make any sizable additions for the rotation.
Keeping that in mind, a new report has shared that the Mets have discussed a major starting pitcher trade with a rival team from the National League East.
According to a report from Pat Ragazzao of New York Mets on SI on January 10, the team has talked about a trade for Washington Nationals starter Mackenzie Gore.
“The Mets recently spoke to the NL East rival Washington Nationals about left-handed starting pitcher MacKenzie Gore, as a source told Mets On SI,” Ragazzo wrote.
New York Mets Should Pursue a Trade for Mackenzie Gore
Gore is exactly the kind of starting pitcher the Mets need to try and add this offseason. He’s young and has elite potential.
Unfortunately, Ragazzo also poured some cold water on the fire of a potential trade for Gore.
“However, the asking price for Gore is said to be astronomically high and nothing appears to be close on this front,” he wrote.
Last season with the Nationals, the 26-year-old Gore ended up making 30 starts. He compiled a 5-15 record to go along with a 4.17 ERA, a 1.35 WHIP, a 2.9 K/BB ratio, and 159.2 innings pitched.
Those numbers don’t scream “superstar” for a team like New York. However, the Mets might view giving him a fresh start in a better situation as a scenario that could unlock his full potential. Gore has the ability to become a high-end starter if he can reach his ceiling.
What Have the Mets Been Able to Do This Offseason?
Entering the MLB offseason, the Mets were hoping to retain either Pete Alonso or Edwin Diaz. Both players ended up leaving town in free agency, with Alonso heading off to the Baltimore Orioles and Diaz landing with the Los Angeles Dodgers.
As for additions this offseason, New York has brought in infielders Marcus Semien and Jorge Polanco, while also signing free agent relief pitcher Devin Williams. Right now, the offseason has been going poorly for the Mets.
Landing a player like Gore in a trade would help start turning the offseason around. There are still question marks surrounding him, but the potential of the move would be huge.
Expect to continue hearing rumors about New York moving forward. Gore may not end up being an option due to the high price tag that Washington reportedly has in place for him. However, the fact that the Mets are showing interest in a division rival’s starting pitcher indicates a willingness to get aggressive.
A trade for Gore can’t be ruled out yet, but Ragazzo did make it clear that the two sides have not been able to advance far in trade negotiations.
Mets Discussing Trade for Starting Pitcher With Division Rival