New York Mets right-hander Freddy Peralta wants to continue playing in Queens this season despite his team's MLB-worst 15-25 start.
Peralta has already had his name pop up in trade rumors, as the two-time All-Star is slated to hit free agency at the end of the 2026 campaign.
"Really, I haven't thought about that, because I have hope and faith that we can achieve a lot with the team we have," Peralta said when asked about the potential of being dealt before the Aug. 3 trade deadline, according to David Venn of MLB.com.
"I have confidence in the guys, and I have confidence in myself as well. I think we can turn it all around. I love being here. I'd like to stay here."
Peralta, acquired by New York in a deal with the Milwaukee Brewers in January, would be one of the top starters available on the trade market should the Mets decide to sell.
The 29-year-old has already been linked to the Chicago Cubs. The NL Central leaders have a glaring need for rotation help with Cade Horton, Matthew Boyd, and Justin Steele sidelined.
Peralta owns a 3.12 ERA with 1.20 WHIP and 43 strikeouts over 43 1/3 innings (eight starts) this year. He spent the first eight seasons of his career with the Brewers.
