What's Happening?
Trade discussions are intensifying around Milwaukee Brewers' starting pitcher Freddy Peralta, with several major league teams expressing interest. According to MLB insiders Ken Rosenthal and Will Sammon,
the New York Yankees, New York Mets, Los Angeles Dodgers, Atlanta Braves, and Boston Red Sox are all potential suitors for Peralta. The Baltimore Orioles are also considered a possible destination due to their trade assets. Peralta, who was an All-Star in 2025, finished the season with a 17-6 record, a 2.70 ERA, and 204 strikeouts over 176.2 innings. Despite a challenging postseason, his consistent performance over eight MLB seasons, including maintaining a 3.59 ERA, makes him a valuable asset. The Brewers, fresh from an NLCS appearance, are likely to demand a major-league-ready starting pitcher in return for Peralta, who is set to earn $8 million in 2026 before becoming a free agent.
Why It's Important?
The potential trade of Freddy Peralta could significantly impact the MLB landscape, particularly for teams looking to bolster their starting rotation. For the Dodgers, acquiring Peralta could provide much-needed depth and stability, especially given their injury challenges in 2025. The Brewers' demand for a major-league-ready pitcher suggests they are looking to remain competitive in the short term. This trade scenario highlights the strategic maneuvers teams must make in a competitive market with a thin free-agent pool for starting pitchers. Teams with lower payrolls might find Peralta's contract appealing, potentially leveling the playing field in acquiring top talent.
What's Next?
As trade talks progress, teams will likely evaluate their current rosters and potential trade assets to meet the Brewers' demands. The Dodgers, known for their aggressive trade strategies, may lead the charge, but other interested teams could also make compelling offers. The outcome of these negotiations could set the tone for further trades in the MLB offseason, influencing team strategies and player movements leading up to the 2026 season.
