Report: Mets, Rangers have discussed Harvey-for-Profar trade
It might be time for a change of scenery for a couple struggling players.
The New York Mets and Texas Rangers have engaged in talks about swapping right-handed starter Matt Harvey and infielder Jurickson Profar, according to FanRag Sports' Jon Heyman.
A source told Mike Puma of the New York Post that the Mets would likely want more than just Profar in any return for Harvey, who's set to become a free agent after next season.
Related: Mets have reportedly discussed Harvey with at least two teams
Harvey has made only 35 starts and one relief appearance over the last two seasons, going 9-17 with a 5.78 ERA over 185 1/3 innings. Once one of the most exciting members of a burgeoning Mets rotation, injuries have limited him in recent years. He underwent Tommy John surgery before missing the 2014 season, and while he was solid in his immediate return, he hasn't pitched well since.
Harvey was diagnosed with thoracic outlet syndrome in 2016, and suffered muscle weakness in his throwing shoulder, causing a dip in his velocity. It got so bad that his shoulder had atrophied.
Profar made his MLB debut in 2012 as a 19-year-old but has had a difficult time sticking around. He has appeared in 206 games across four seasons in six years - he spent 2014 and 2015 on the disabled list with his own shoulder issues - batting .229/.309/.329 with 12 home runs.
As such, Profar won't be eligible for free agency until 2021, while the Rangers would have only one year of control on Harvey before he hits the open market next offseason.