The New York Mets have seemingly turned things around after a recent rough stretch. They've had several injuries in their starting rotation.
This is an area that they should look to improve upon at the trade deadline. They are going to need some arms to make a push in the second half.
The Mets are only one game back in the National League East and are leading the NL Wild Card race, so they are in a good position to be buyers at the deadline.
David Schoenfield of ESPN proposed three wild trade ideas for Paul Skenes, Byron Buxton and Ronald Acuna Jr. One idea for Skenes had the reigning Rookie of the Year being sent to New York, though Schoenfield noted it is unlikely.
"As much as the Mets could use a staff ace, their system is deeper in pitching prospects, which doesn't best align with the Pirates' needs," Schoenfield wrote.
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This trade proposal had New York sending Jett Williams, Jonah Tong, Nolan McLean, Ronny Mauricio and Carson Benge to Pittsburgh.
Even if it doesn't satisfy the Pirates needs, they would be receiving some bats in exchange that could help them in the near future.
Pittsburgh has elite pitching, but not enough offense to be a true contender. As for the Mets, they would be landing a bona fide ace to lead their rotation.
As unlikely as it may seem, this would put the Mets in the conversation for World Series contention, and the rotation would receive an even bigger boost when Sean Manaea makes his eventual return from the injured list.
Clay Holmes has also pitched well as a starter, so New York could have a truly elite rotation.
They'll have to blow the Pirates away with any offer for Skenes, which makes the deal unlikely. But it is never impossible. It might be worth giving up some top prospects to make it happen.
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