Mets Retain Top Pitching Prospects, Acquire Relievers Amid Trade Talks

As the MLB trade deadline approached, the New York Mets focused on strengthening their bullpen rather than acquiring a top or middle-of-the-rotation starting pitcher, despite some struggles in their starting rotation. Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns cited confidence in the current rotation and promising developments among Triple-A pitching prospects Nolan McLean and Brandon Sproat as reasons for this strategy. The Mets added relievers Ryan Helsley and Tyler Rogers to bolster their late-inning options, complementing earlier acquisition Gregory Soto, which manager Carlos Mendoza said increased bullpen flexibility and depth. While the Mets considered adding rotation depth, including interest in San Diego Padres' Dylan Cease, they also sought to trade struggling starter Paul Blackburn to create roster space. Concurrently, the Mets were active in trade talks involving young infielder Luisangel Acuña, possibly as part of efforts to acquire White Sox outfielder Luis Robert Jr. Holding a slim lead in the NL East, the Mets’ front office decisions at the deadline were critical to shaping their postseason prospects.