The Tampa Bay Rays are interested in New York Mets pitcher Freddy Peralta, according to MLB insider Robert Murray. Peralta, acquired from the Milwaukee Brewers less than seven months ago, is reportedly expected to be traded before the upcoming deadline following a disappointing tenure with the Mets.
Peralta has struggled in Queens this season, posting a 4.99 ERA through 22 starts. This mark would be the highest of his nine-year major league career over a full season as a starter. He was anticipated to be the ace of the Mets' rotation after a strong 2025 season where he recorded a 2.70 ERA for Milwaukee and finished fifth in National League Cy Young Award voting.
Following his latest start, in which he allowed three runs (one earned) over four innings, Peralta acknowledged the possibility of his departure. "I know it probably is," Peralta said of it being his final appearance for the Mets. "But I have to keep focus and keep giving the best of myself and if it happens, it happens. I am just thankful and grateful to be a part of this organization. I know so far I have let them down. I haven’t done what I am supposed to do, but I am grateful to be here."
Peralta, who is set to become a free agent after this season, expressed confidence in his ability to improve. "I know I can be way better than this," he stated. "I still believe in myself. I am born to be a winner, not a loser, and I think I have a lot in me, a lot to show, and I know I can make it change because I still have time to make it change, to make it better."
Peralta has been a notable figure during a difficult season for the Mets. The team, which had postseason aspirations entering the year, currently holds a 45-62 record. The Rays, meanwhile, are looking to strengthen a starting rotation that has posted a 3.53 ERA this season, the fourth-best in baseball. Tampa Bay leads the American League with a 62-43 record, holding a 2.5-game lead over the New York Yankees in the AL East.