David Stearns will have to change one thing for New York Mets if they want to keep Freddy Peralta originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The New York Mets need to figure out something long-term with Freddy Peralta, the ace of their staff, after trading for him during the winter. While the right-hander has been one of the better arms in baseball over the past several seasons, extending him would be a different idea than one that David Stearns has shown recently.
Advertisement
amNewYork’s Joe Pantorno suggested that Stearns will have to change his approach to pitching contracts if the Mets want to keep Peralta long term, an idea that many are agreeing with.
“For at least the last three seasons, the 29-year-old Peralta has been dependable, pitching at least 165 innings every year of that stretch, and another healthy, strong campaign in 2026 will only strengthen his chances of getting that long-term, big-money contract from somewhere,” Pantorno wrote.
However, Pantorno also noted that the Mets’ front office has historically preferred a different strategy for pitchers. Stearns is a great head man but is in a tougher spot than usual.
“The Mets’ appetite to fulfill that wish, though, is murky at best. Not only does Stearns not pay up for pitching, but Jonah Tong is brewing in the minors and projects to be a front-line starter upon his full introduction to the majors.”
Advertisement
Pantorno added that relying on younger, controllable arms may better align with Stearns’ plan.
“That is a 1-2 punch that fits Stearns’ roster-construction style far better than a seven-year contract.”
If Peralta continues producing at a high level, which he should, the Mets will soon face a decision that’s far tougher than it seems.
More MLB news: