5 expendable Mets players the team can move before the trade deadline

2) David Peterson

Should the Mets trade David Peterson? It would probably only make sense under one circumstance. If a team is willing to part with a superior pitcher, they shouldn’t hesitate.

Peterson probably isn’t in the team’s plans for next year. Barring some kind of a sudden rise into excellence, he’s going to remain one of those fringe starting pitchers for the organization. He’s fine as a fifth or sixth starter next season. But for a team that’ll also have Tylor Megill whose own abilities fluctuate, it’s probably not the best intended plan to have both on next year’s roster. Each could have at least one minor league option remaining. It depends on whether or not the Mets ever send Peterson to the minors in 2024.

We’ve seen a very strange season out of Peterson in 2024. He’s winning games, throwing strikes, and pitching to contact. Less than 5 strikeouts per 9 is almost unbelievable in any sample size. The nasty stuff isn’t there. The Mets have much better options in the minors with Jose Butto and Christian Scott awaiting their call. 

Butto, for whatever it’s worth, has already used up his final year of being optioned to the minors. A much more fascinating option for the Mets going forward, selling Peterson over him would be more beneficial for the Amazins. However, Butto would be the far more desirable player because he has a lower salary and more years of control.

Peterson isn’t a starting pitcher to have on the roster if the Mets truly intend to contend for a playoff spot. A useful depth piece, he’s as expendable as they come.