Notable update emerges on Mets pitcher situation ahead of trade deadline

The New York Mets appear to be on the verge of a fire sale as the MLB trade deadline looms.

Among the top names to watch on the Mets is pitcher Clay Holmes, who could be traded by New York instead of being signed to a contract extension, according to Ken Rosenthal and Will Sammon of The Athletic on Wednesday.

“While the possibility remains that the New York Mets and Clay Holmes agree to an extension, there’s a significantly greater likelihood of a trade, said people familiar with the situation who were granted anonymity in exchange for their candor,” Rosenthal and Sammon said.

Holmes signed a 3-year, $38 million deal with the Mets in January to avoid arbitration, and while he posted solid numbers in nine appearances so far with the club, he’s also not pitched since mid-May after suffering a fractured fibula injury. 

So far in his first year with the Mets, the two-time All-Star Holmes owns a 2.39 ERA.

The Mets wouldn’t have to sweat it heading into the trade deadline as likely sellers if they were playing much better on the field. But New York sits last in the National League East standings with a 43-60 record, 17 games behind the division leader through Thursday.