Rangers acquire Max Scherzer from Mets in blockbuster trade

The Texas Rangers have agreed to acquire three-time Cy Young Award winner Max Scherzer from the New York Mets. The trade, which was reported by a source with inside knowledge of the deal, marks a bold move by the Rangers, who are currently leading the AL West.

The details of the trade include the Rangers adding Scherzer to their roster along with another former Mets pitcher, Jacob deGrom, who is sidelined due to Tommy John elbow surgery and could be out until the end of the next season.

As part of the trade, the Mets will receive one of the top prospects from the Texas organization, infielder Luisangel Acuña, the younger brother of Atlanta Braves’ star Ronald Acuña Jr.

Reports suggest that Max Scherzer has agreed to opt into the final year of his contract in 2024, which will see him earn $43 million. Additionally, it’s said that the Mets will cover approximately $35 million of the remaining $58 million on Scherzer’s contract.

The Mets’ decision to trade Scherzer comes just two days after they sent closer David Robertson to Miami for two minor leaguers. The team has faced disappointment this season, despite starting with the highest payroll in baseball.

With Scherzer’s arrival, the Rangers are making a statement as they continue to rebuild their team. Earlier this trading season, they made a significant move by acquiring Aroldis Chapman from Kansas City to strengthen their bullpen.

This trade also raises questions about the future of another Mets pitcher, Justin Verlander, who is also a three-time Cy Young winner signed through the next season. It’s anticipated that many teams will be interested in the 40-year-old right-hander.

For the Rangers, this move solidifies their rotation and provides a significant boost, considering deGrom’s uncertain return timeline due to his injury.

The deal took place on a day when the Rangers announced that All-Star right-hander Nathan Eovaldi would have his next start delayed due to a sore elbow, though the club believes it’s not a serious concern.

The Rangers’ offseason signing of Jacob deGrom came with the understanding of the risks associated with his injury history. Unfortunately, deGrom only managed six starts before being sidelined with elbow issues, leading to the need for Tommy John surgery, his second in his career.

Rangers’ manager Bruce Bochy acknowledged the need to improve their starting rotation, a concern that has been addressed with the addition of Scherzer.

With a career total of 210 victories, Scherzer stands as the third-winningest active pitcher, trailing behind Justin Verlander and Kansas City’s Zack Greinke. The 39-year-old Scherzer will now bring his expertise to the Rangers as they aim to continue their impressive run in the AL West.