Rangers, Mets reportedly agree to blockbuster trade

The Texas Rangers and New York Mets fell short of expectations in 2025. A surprising trade may be the beginning of a shakeup for both franchises.

ESPN's Jeff Passan reported that the Rangers are sending infielder Marcus Semien to the Mets. In exchange, outfielder Brandon Nimmo is heading to Texas. Jon Heyman from MLB Network reported that Nimmo will waive his no-trade clause to allow the trade to go through.

Passan had reported on Tuesday that the Mets had made Nimmo available for trade. However, Andy Martino from SNY called those discussions preliminary and reported that Nimmo had not been approached about waiving his no-trade clause to facilitate a deal at the time.

Texas Rangers, New York Mets make surprising deal to fill needs

A three-time All-Star, Semien had a brutal start to the season, posting a .173/.260/.224 batting line with three homers and one double over 223 plate appearances through May 28. He began to hit afterward as his .270/.338/.464 batting line with 12 homers and 15 doubles over his final 311 plate appearances was more in line with his typical production.

Semien's value goes beyond his offense. He has been one of the best defensive second basemen in baseball, saving 47 runs at the keystone over seven seasons while leading the American League with 13 runs saved in 2025. President of baseball operations David Stearns said that improving the Mets' defense would be a focal point this offseason, as adding Semien is a step in that direction.

Nimmo, meanwhile, could be viewed as a replacement for outfielder Adolis Garcia, who was not tendered a contract. He has emerged as one of the steadier players in baseball and has moved past the injury issues that dogged his early career. Nimmo posted a solid .262/.324/.436 batting line over his 652 plate appearances in 2025, hitting 25 homers and 27 doubles.

This may not be the last major deal for either franchise. The Mets are looking to revamp the roster, with pitcher Kodai Senga and second baseman/outfielder Jeff McNeil reportedly on the trade block. The Rangers were expected to lower payroll, but are also looking to return to the postseason. Sunday's trade may only be the beginning.