A reunion with Jacob deGrom might be NY Mets’ best Tarik Skubal backup plan

Rising Apple's Stephen Parello argues that trading for Jacob deGrom is the New York Mets' best alternative if they fail to sign free-agent ace Tarik Skubal. With the Texas Rangers facing payroll constraints, Parello suggests Texas may need to move high-earning stars. In contrast to pursuing free agent Michael King, deGrom offers short-term commitment with one guaranteed year remaining on his contract at $37 million alongside a 2028 club option.

Parello notes that while deGrom logged a 4.20 ERA in 2026, his underlying metrics remained elite, featuring a 97.5 mph average fastball velocity and a 30.1% strikeout rate across 31 starts. The writer contends that deGrom's full no-trade clause gives New York leverage, making a potential trade feasible without requiring a long-term mega-deal.