Rangers make Blockbuster Trade for Max Scherzer
The Rangers are making a huge splash at the deadline as they have agreed with the Mets to trade for ace Max Scherzer. The loss of Jacob DeGrom early in the season hurt, but the Rangers address that greatly with this trade.
It’s been a down year for Scherzer’s standards posting a 4.01 ERA over 107.2 innings. However, it’s been far from a bad year still posting a 1.189 WHIP with 121 Ks. It’s clear he still has some left in the tank and can be a valuable addition to this Texas team trying to make a deep playoff run.
Scherzer’s name was tossed around in trade rumors but many weren’t sure Steve Cohen would actually pull the trigger. But at 49-54 in 4th place in the NL West with the highest payroll it’s been a disappointing season, to say the least.
Which very likely played a role in the decision to ultimately trade Scherzer. He’s making $43 million and just isn’t giving you the production that warrants that. The Mets have needs to address but are handicapped by already being over the luxury tax.
This trade is a step in the right direction and should give the Mets a little more wiggle room finically. On the other hand, though, the Rangers are increasing their already steep payroll.
They are clearly selling out for the next few years and I can’t say I blame them. Their window is right now so might as well pull out all the stops. They were already spending a tremendous amount of money, what’s another $43 million?
Can Scherzer turn the clock back and give the Rangers his normal Cy Young-level pitching? It’s yet to be seen. Players are famous for leaving the Mets and immediately becoming better so maybe Scherzer will benefit from that magic. If that does become the case, the Rangers become a lot more dangerous.
Update:
Star right-hander Max Scherzer has been traded from the New York Mets to the Texas Rangers, sources familiar with the situation tell ESPN. The deal is done.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) July 30, 2023
So from the Met’s perspective, I like the return, I don’t love it, but I do like it. Luisangel Acuna looks legit and if he’s even half as good as his older brother then the Mets are getting something special here.
So far in AA, he’s hitting .315 with 25 2B and 42 SB. I know it’s only AA ball but he is still showing the tools you want to see in an MLB player. I don’t love having to pay over $35 million but I suppose it’s better than having to pay the entire rest of the contract.
Not a bad return at all for the Mets and from what I can see this Acuna kid has the chance to really be something special. Now we just wait and see if the Mets double down and trade Justin Verlander.
As for the Rangers, Scherzer has already opted in so he will be a Ranger till at least 2024.
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