Mets Trade Rumors: Zack Wheeler’s price tag may be too high

New York Mets trade rumors involving Zack Wheeler may soon die down. The righty has pitched so well of late, the price tag may have exceeded what anyone would pay.

Yet another tremendous start for Zack Wheeler on Sunday may have ended the possibility of a trade. From the files of the latest New York Mets trade rumors, Jon Heyman of Fancred suggests Wheeler may have “turned a corner.” As a result, the price tag for the righty starter could now put him out of reach for contenders.

For those hoping the Mets would keep the pitching staff intact for next year (surely, sans Jason Vargas), this is good news. Unlike other trade candidates on teams getting shopped around this month who have struggled and lost their value, Wheeler has surpassed expectations.

I do think the Mets value Wheeler more than other teams. They see him up close and trading him without getting more value in return would be foolish. While I do believe an offseason trade could still happen even if Wheeler survives the 2018 deadline, I also wouldn’t be surprised to see him stay for Opening Day 2019.

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It’s funny. When the season began, Wheeler was the outside man who had to work his way back into the rotation. Even when Vargas began the year on the disabled list, there wasn’t any room for him in the rotation to start the year.

Wheeler’s season numbers include a 5-6 record and 4.11 ERA in 20 starts. The more important statistic to look at come from his monthly splits.

In June, Wheeler went 0-2 with a 3.26 ERA in six outings. He was better and luckier in July with a 3-0 record and 3.13 ERA in five starts.

Wheeler may be the best pitcher available in these final hours before the trade deadline. Unless the Tampa Bay Rays move Chris Archer, the Mets hold the best card.

Meanwhile, Devin Mesoraco‘s future remains questionable as does fellow upcoming free agent Jose Bautista. Both veterans become nomads after the 2018 campaign. Neither should blow anyone away, but each could supplement a roster as a bench piece.

Soon enough, we will know what the Mets and other teams think of Wheeler. If he goes, maybe someone else respects his magic.

If Wheeler stays, perhaps others aren’t buying in yet.

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Pay close attention to the Mets trade rumors anywhere you can. Who goes and who doesn’t remains a mystery.