Andy Martino, SNY.tv | Twitter |
CLEVELAND -- Zack Wheeler has become a pitcher in high demand, and the Mets have now begun trade talks, according to major league sources. Among the teams who have been in contact are the Yankees and Red Sox, both of whom are interested in Wheeler.
The Braves and Cubs are two other possibilities for Wheeler. According to one source, there is significant interest in Wheeler. A trade is not believed to be close with any one suitor, but the Mets have shifted into a more aggressive sell mode.
Jason Vargas and Todd Frazier are also available. Noah Syndergaard isn't a total lock to stay, but it is far more likely that the Mets explore trading him again this winter, per sources.
The dual interest from Boston and New York could accelerate the process with Wheeler, as one club tries to keep him away from the other.
Yankees GM Brian Cashman has been busy trying to swing a trade for a starting pitcher. Trevor Bauer of the Indians and Blue Jays RHP Marcus Stroman are among his other targets, but he is reluctant to move outfielder Clint Frazier for either.
Other teams do not yet know if Cleveland will make Bauer available. The Indians are in the wild card race, but rivals expect they will have to make tough choices with their payroll and are likely to move Bauer by next year, if not sooner.
Yankees top evaluator Tim Naehring was in Cincinnati for Bauer's final start before the All-Star break, but as one source reminded, Naehring lives in the Cincinnati area and scouts many Reds games. A source says that he wasn't sent specifically because Bauer was starting.