The New York Mets have confirmed they are moving the pitcher, a decision that will address a key team need, according to The Athletic’s Will Sammon.
He has attracted trade interest during the Winter Meetings, making him one of several starting pitchers the Mets have fielded inquiries about. The team appears to be seeking a deal resembling the recent Brandon Nimmo-for-Marcus Semien swap, in which they exchanged an expendable outfielder for a strong defensive infielder without involving any prospects—a straightforward, like-for-like trade.
David Peterson’s value in such a deal is enhanced by his affordable salary and consistent performance on the mound. He is under team control for one more season, projected to earn roughly $7 million in arbitration, according to MLB Trade Rumors. Peterson’s standout year came in 2024, when he posted a 2.90 ERA across 21 starts and earned a 2.9 bWAR. In 2025, he made 20 starts, but his ERA rose to 4.22 due to a second-half slump that mirrored a broader team decline. He began the year strong, earning his first All-Star selection, with a 3.06 ERA in the first half, but performance waned in the latter months, ending with a 6.34 ERA.
Other Mets starters, including Japanese pitcher Kodai Senga, are also potential trade candidates. Senga has two years remaining on his $15 million-per-season contract, with a team option for 2028. Since joining MLB, Senga has been a reliable starter, though at 32 years old, he may be more expendable due to age and contract considerations. His 2025 performance reflected a decline, with a 2.1 bWAR compared to a 4.5 bWAR in 2023.
The Mets could realistically trade either Peterson or Senga to strengthen other areas of the roster. Peterson’s affordability and consistency make him an appealing option, while Senga’s age and guaranteed salary position him as the more likely trade candidate. Either move could allow the Mets to acquire valuable assets while maintaining balance within the pitching staff and overall roster.