The New York Mets have a route to becoming the World Series favorites in 2025. And it could be through a massive super-blockbuster trade with the Boston Red Sox . But what would be the cost of such a gigantic deal?
Despite a shocking slump over the last two weeks, where they lost 10 of 11, the Mets are just three games out from owning the best record in baseball. However, the recent skid did showcase that the team has clear weak spots. And the starting staff may be coming back down to Earth following a hot start to the season.
Upgrading second or third, designated hitter, the bullpen, and adding a pitcher that can start a playoff game are all needs heading into the July trade deadline. Well, there is a prominent team that could soon be sellers, and has several players that should be up for grabs that can address all of New York 's issues.
"If they don't mind a modern-day Boston Tea Party with everyone ripping up their tickets, the Red Sox could set the trade deadline ablaze by dealing Alex Bregman before he opts out or trading outfielder Jarren Duran ," USA Today MLB insider Bob Nightengale wrote this week. "Boston could part with closer Aroldis Chapman and starter Walker Buehler , who joined in the winter on a one-year deal."
Adding Bregman, Chapman, and Buehler could be the sort of super-blockbuster trade that makes the Mets the team to beat in the NL. But should they pursue such a huge deal?
Alex Bregman stats (2025): .299 AVG, .385 OBP, .553 SLG, .938 OPS, 11 HR, 35 RBI, 32 R
Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
The New York Mets have the key pieces to be a title contender again in 2025. The trio of Francisco Lindor , Pete Alonso , and Juan Soto makes their batting order one to respect. When healthy, a starting rotation led by Kodai Senga , Sean Manaea , and David Peterson is formidable despite not being big-name talent. And they have a solid bullpen despite their recent slump. But they need more to go all the way.
And the Red Sox have the exact kind of players that could perfectly round out their roster for a World Series run. Bregman is an All-Star-level player who could slot into either second or third. However, placing him at third, letting Ronny Mauricio and Jeff McNeil platoon at second, and moving Mark Vientos to the DH spot could strengthen all three spots with one addition. Plus, Bregman elevates his game in the postseason.
Aroldis Chapman stats (2025): 1.36 ERA, 0.818 WHIP, 14 saves, 48 strikeouts, 10 walks
Despite being 37, Chapman is having a season that could earn him an eighth trip to the All-Star game. He is the sort of dominant reliever the team needs to combine with Edwin Diaz in the playoffs. Dodgers veteran Walker Buehler is having a disappointing season (5-5 record and 6.29 ERA). But the Mets found out last year that he is an absolute gem when the playoffs roll around. Plus, adding him to the rotations could push former Yankees closer Clay Holmes to the pen for the playoffs.
At first glance, it would seem like a lot of payroll to add this year and beyond. However, as Nightengale mentioned, Bregman is likely to test free agency in the offseason. Chapman is a free agent after the season. And Buehler has a mutual option the Mets can choose not to use if he disappoints. But what would be the asset cost of such a huge deal?
Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
New York will likely have to part with some meaningful assets in a trade for the Boston trio. However, with Buehler having a down year and all three possibly leaving after the season, it does help bring down the cost somewhat.
In a potential super-blockbuster for the trio of multi-time All-Stars, top-10 prospects Ryan Clifford and/or Drew Gilbert may have to be included. As well as Triple-A right-hander Nolan McLean. However, elite prospects like Jett Williams, Brandon Sproat, and Jonah Tong will be untouchable in such a trade.
Mets get: Alex Bregman , Walker Buehler, and Aroldis Chapman
Red Sox get: Starling Marte , Ryan Clifford, Drew Gilbert, Nolan McLean, Luisangel Acuna, Brett Baty , and a player to be named later
Of the players that have big league experience, Starling Marte is likely to be included. To send some money back to Boston. Which they won't mind since he comes off the books after the season. Furthermore, fan-favorite Luisangel Acuna likely will be included, and New York may try to add Brett Baty. Despite his recent struggles, the Mets are unlikely to part with former top prospect Francisco Alvarez just yet.
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