Justin Verlander picked up his 250th career win Sunday, rarified air for pitchers in this age. After the game, however, the conversation turned to the inevitable question.
The New York Mets traded ace Max Scherzer Saturday. Is Verlander next to go before Tuesday’s trade deadline?
The 40-year-old right-hander has a no-trade clause in his contract. So did Scherzer.
Would Verlander be willing to waive that to move to another team?
“I’m committed to try and win a championship here,” Verlander said, “but if the organization decides that that’s not the direction that’s best fit for next year, I’d be open to it.”
Heading into the season no one expected the Mets to become dedicated sellers at the trade deadline. But the team dealt closer David Robertson to the Miami Marlins Thursday, then Scherzer to the Texas Rangers Saturday.
Verlander said he was especially surprised by the Scherzer trade.
“Obviously, things came together really quickly, and yeah, I was a bit surprised to see it go down,” Verlander said.
Verlander admitted the Scherzer trade made him wonder about the Mets’ future.
“Max was obviously supposed to be an integral part of this team next season,” Verlander said. “So when you see that happen, you can’t help but think what’s in store for next year.”
“We play this game to win, you want to win a championship, and you want to have the opportunity to do so. So it changed my opinion (on Mets plans) a little bit, it was tough to see it happen.”
[SNY]
About Arthur Weinstein
Arthur spends his free time traveling around the U.S. to sporting events, state and national parks, and in search of great restaurants off the beaten path.