The New York Mets made waves this offseason by trading two top 100 prospects to the Milwaukee Brewers in exchange for Freddy Peralta, a move that has sparked debate among fans. With few significant starting pitchers available, the Mets set a market standard that others have yet to follow.
Peralta fills a critical need for the Mets, but the real intrigue lies in the acquisition of Tobias Myers. Once a journeyman with the Brewers, Myers has shown potential that the Mets plan to unlock by stretching him out as a starter, rather than relegating him to bullpen duties.
Initially graded as a B+ move, this trade could look even better if Myers becomes a reliable starter for the Mets this year and beyond.
Myers isn't your typical relief pitcher. He's already shown the stamina needed for starting roles, having excelled in outings requiring more than just a few outs. His 8-7 record with a 3.48 ERA in 31 starts suggests he's more than capable, despite his more dominant 1.62 ERA in relief over a smaller sample size of 33.1 innings.
With five times as many innings pitched as a starter compared to his relief work, Myers' versatility is a valuable asset for the Mets in 2026. He’s positioned as the seventh option in the rotation, but with young pitchers like Jonah Tong and Christian Scott likely needing more time in Triple-A-especially Scott, who’s returning from Tommy John surgery-Myers could quickly move up the pecking order.
This trade initially brought back memories of the 2021 deal involving Javier Baez and Trevor Williams for Pete Crow-Armstrong. However, this situation feels different, particularly with a full year of control over Peralta and more than two years with Myers, compared to just one year with Williams in the past.
Should Peralta capture a Cy Young with the Mets, the trade’s grade would certainly rise. In the meantime, Myers emerging as a genuine starting option would be a significant win. The Mets' willingness to use him as a starter, coupled with their commitment to having him make the team out of camp, indicates their confidence in his potential.