MLB trade rumors: Milwaukee Brewers could bag $38.5 million Boston Red Sox star to fill Freddy Peralta void post blockbuster Mets trade

The Milwaukee Brewers made a major roster move on January 21, 2026, trading Freddy Peralta and Tobias Myers to the New York Mets for Jett Williams and Brandon Sproat. The deal addressed long-term depth but left a clear opening in Milwaukee’s starting rotation as the season approaches.That gap has shifted attention to free agent Lucas Giolito, who remains unsigned late into March. League insiders view Milwaukee as a realistic landing spot, with the expectation that he could be added on a short-term deal to bring experience to a young pitching group.Freddy Peralta is coming off a strong 2025 season, going 17–6 with a 2.70 ERA, 204 strikeouts, and 176.2 innings pitched. On the other side, Myers brings versatility to the Mets after posting a 3.55 ERA while working as both a starter and reliever. In return, the Brewers get Williams, who hit .281/.390/.477 in Double-A, along with Sproat, who recorded a 4.24 ERA between Triple-A and a short stint in the majors.No money was exchanged, but Milwaukee cleared Peralta’s $8 million salary. For the Mets, the move strengthens a rotation that already includes Nolan McLean and Sean Manaea, while also reuniting Peralta with David Stearns.Milwaukee Brewers add controllable talent. Williams brings speed and defensive flexibility, finishing 2025 with 17 home runs and 34 stolen bases. Sproat offers a power arm with a mid-to-high 90s fastball and a developing changeup, putting him in contention for a back-end rotation role. Williams has already shown signs of adjustment in spring, going 5-for-12 with extra-base hits before a likely move to Triple-A Nashville.The Mets gain a proven starter. Freddy Peralta’s track record since 2023 includes 95 starts and consistent strikeout production, giving stability to a rotation alongside Kodai Senga. Myers provides additional depth as a swing option when needed.Peralta provided higher strikeout numbers and more innings, while Lucas Giolito showed he could return to form and handle regular starts at a lower cost.Milwaukee Brewers improve their farm system without entering a rebuild and creates payroll space, with projections around $126 million allowing room for a Giolito-type signing under $10 million. The downside is losing a top starter, with the current rotation relying on younger, less proven arms and ongoing uncertainty around Brandon Woodruff.The Mets strengthen their rotation for immediate competition. Peralta adds reliability, and Myers increases depth. However, the cost includes players close to the majors, and Peralta’s contract situation could limit long-term return.Also read:MLB trade rumors: Atlanta Braves exploring $340 million San Diego Padres superstar in blockbuster deal as outfield issues growMilwaukee’s position improves if Giolito is added to take on innings while the incoming prospects develop. The Mets address a current need by strengthening their rotation for 2026. The outcome depends on short-term results for New York and long-term development for Milwaukee, with the trade leaning toward the Brewers in future value.