5 trade candidates to start thinking about amid Max Scherzer injury concerns

New York Mets ace Max Scherzer was unable to pitch in his last outing due to neck spasms. This news comes after the New York Post published an interview where Scherzer argues that he has been pitching with discomfort below his right scapula.

These discomforts cause concern that Max could miss more outings or playing time during the remainder of the year. This, added to the questions that the rest of the members of the Mets rotation bring with them, making it necessary to explore options in the trade market.

1) Lucas Giolito could be the remedy the Mets rotation needs

Lucas Giolito is pitching in what would likely be his final year with the Chicago White Sox. Giolito is in his third and last year of arbitration before heading to the free agency.

White Sox standing position and Giolito's contractual situation makes him a perfect trade piece. The young 28-year-old pitcher will be a rental that would draw the attention of contender teams in need of pitching.

The former top prospect for the Washington Nationals has had good results in MLB and this year he is having a good season. The success of this 2023 is due to his ability to limit hard-hit contact and a better location of his pitches, allowing him to have more control and award fewer walks.

The slider has been the most effective pitch in his arsenal, limiting the opposition to a batting average below .160 and generating a relevant number of swings and misses. Also, his fastball has been averaging around 93 mph, higher than last year.

Lucas Giolito will enter the market as a striking option for many contenders, but since he will be a rental, his cost will not be as high as other candidates. The Mets could significantly improve their rotation with a pitcher of Giolito's level and potential in their quest to reach the postseason.