The New York Mets are interested in Max Scherzer and will inquire about the Washington Nationals ace, according Andy Martino of SNY. However, executives around the league are skeptical the Nationals would be willing to make a trade to aid an NL East division rival.
The Nationals have engaged in trade talks about the three-time Cy Young winner. Scherzer is in the final year of a seven-year, $210 million deal. The 36-year old is 7-4 with a 2.83 ERA and 0.886 WHIP in 18 starts this season.
Washington trails the Mets by eight games in the NL East standings after being swept by the Baltimore Orioles this weekend. With four games before Friday’s MLB trade deadline, the Nationals could be sellers. Scherzer is by far their biggest trade asset.
Meanwhile, the Mets are still looking for starting pitcher despite landing Rich Hill from the Tampa Bay Rays this past Friday. Scherzer would be a great arm to pair with Mets star Jacob deGrom. He also could be insurance as deGrom has been hampered by injuries this season.
Yet, it’s hard to believe Nationals GM Mike Rizzo or owner Mark Lerner would be okay with helping the Mets or any team from the NL East.
