Mets' Peralta: Hot Start, High Stakes

0:00On April 8th, the New York Mets are off to a hot start in the 2026 season, sitting at seven wins and four losses, leading the national League East. But their early success might come at a cost, with Ace pitcher Freddie Peralta likely heading to free agency after this year. They traded top prospects for him last off season from the Milwaukee Brewers, right before his final year of team control. Peralta's been their opening day starter, earning $8 million this season, but talks for an extension fell through during spring training. Fans and analysts see him as a top prize on the market, with his five years in the Milwaukee featuring a 3.30 ERA 1.09, WHIP and nearly 900 strikeouts. He's one of just two pitches, with over 200 Ks in each of the last three seasons, and his buddy Dylan Seas just ain't a seven year one. $175 million deal as a baseline. Right now, Peralta's 1 and 0, with a 4.80 ERA, over 15 innings, striking out 19.

1:05His first outing was rough, but he settled in the last two starts, eyeing another all-star nod. Projections have him landing a five year, $131 million contract elsewhere, so the Mets better ride his arm deep into the playoffs if they want a shot at keeping their ace. That's your update from New York Mets News today, powered by AI. I'm Corey with the story.