PHOENIX — With the MLB trade deadline approaching, the Arizona Diamondbacks’ need for starting pitching has become impossible to ignore.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!There is a 90% chance that the Mets trade Freddy Peralta at the trade deadline, per @JeffPassan
Best fits:
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Braves pic.twitter.com/Sx5IB7gusV— SleeperMets (@SleeperMets) July 6, 2026
While Arizona hasn’t been reported to be fully committed to buying at the deadline, one of the areas that has kept the club from going on an extended run is its lack of arms in the starting rotation. Injuries and inconsistent performances have left the D-backs searching for stability.
If the club hopes to remain in the National League playoff race, acquiring a proven starter should be a priority. According to ESPN’s Jeff Passan, one potential target for Arizona is New York Mets right-hander Freddy Peralta.
Jul 1, 2026; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; New York Mets pitcher Freddy Peralta (51) throws a pitch against the Toronto Blue Jays during the second inning at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images
Despite a turbulent first half, Peralta has emerged as one of the most likely starting pitchers to be moved before the deadline. Clubs remain confident in his ability to make a postseason impact, and New York has little incentive to keep him if it falls out of contention.
The 30-year-old is in the final year of his contract and is earning $8 million this season, making him an affordable addition.
Peralta checks the boxes the D-Backs are looking for in a dependable arm, including the ability to generate strikeouts and pitch deep into games. While his strikeout rate has taken a slight dip, it’s his fastball command at the top of the strike zone and his changeup that have allowed him to find success without relying solely on velocity.
Apr 13, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Milwaukee Brewers pitcher Freddy Peralta (51) on the mound to pitch in the first inning against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Allan Henry-Imagn Images
So far this season, the right-hander has posted a 4.81 ERA and a 1.42 WHIP. Those numbers are higher than his career averages, but he has continued to give the Mets a chance to win with competitive outings.
That could be valuable for the Snakes, as many of their starters have struggled to consistently provide quality innings. With Ryne Nelson set to miss significant time and Corbin Burnes’ return pushed back until September, the burden on the bullpen has only increased.
Apr 7, 2026; New York City, New York, USA; New York Mets pitcher Freddy Peralta (51) delivers a pitch during the second inning against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
Adding Peralta would give Arizona a reliable postseason arm who has shown he can rise to the occasion against high-level competition.
If the D-Backs’ front office is ready to make a splash and go all in for a chance at October, Peralta may represent one of the best opportunities to address its biggest weakness.
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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
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