The New York Mets are one of the biggest teams to watch as the 2026 MLB trade deadline gets closer. After a disappointing 28-36 start, many around baseball believe the Mets could end up selling players if they do not turn their season around soon. One name that keeps coming up in trade talks is Freddy Peralta.However, the latest report suggests the Mets are not ready to move him just yet. According to USA Today insider Bob Nightengale, New York’s front office still believes the team can make a playoff push. At the same time, a new report has revealed the kind of contract Peralta is expected to seek if he eventually reaches free agency or is traded to another club.CategoryDetailsPlayerFreddy PeraltaCurrent TeamNew York MetsRumored TeamsNot specified, but contenders could show interestContract StatusEligible for free agency after 2026 seasonReported Contract AskSimilar to Max Fried’s 8-year, $218 million dealTrade LikelihoodLow at presentLatest Insider UpdateBob Nightengale says Mets are not shopping himPotential ReturnTop prospects and young MLB-ready talentPotential trade packages for Freddy PeraltaIf the Mets change course before the deadline, any team interested in Freddy Peralta would likely have to pay a significant price. The Mets already gave up two highly regarded prospects, Brandon Sproat and Jett Williams, to acquire Peralta. Because of that investment, New York would almost certainly want multiple premium prospects, young major league talent, or high draft capital in return. Peralta is still viewed as a frontline starter, which means contenders looking for pitching help could be willing to make aggressive offers.Which teams could be interested in Freddy Peralta?Although no specific teams have been strongly linked to Peralta yet, playoff contenders are always looking for reliable starting pitching. Teams with postseason hopes and rotation concerns could view him as a valuable addition. His ability to miss bats and work deep into games makes him an attractive option for clubs trying to strengthen their pitching staff before October. Still, any serious interest would depend on whether the Mets decide to listen to offers.What insiders are saying about the trade rumorsThe latest update comes from USA Today’s Bob Nightengale. Nightengale reported that the Mets currently have “no interest in shopping Freddy Peralta or anyone else” because president of baseball operations David Stearns still believes the club can reach the postseason.That report suggests New York’s focus remains on winning rather than selling, despite the team’s difficult start.Contract details and salary implicationsPeralta’s future value is a major part of the discussion. According to Nightengale, people familiar with Peralta’s expectations believe the right-hander is looking for a contract similar to the eight-year, $218 million deal signed by Max Fried.Peralta can point to his impressive track record. He recorded at least 200 strikeouts in three straight seasons from 2023 through 2025. That consistency could help strengthen his case during future contract negotiations. In 2026, Peralta has gone 4-4 with a 3.63 ERA, a 1.32 WHIP, and 74 strikeouts in 72 innings across 13 starts.How a trade could impact both sidesWith the Mets, trading Peralta would probably mean the season is going a different way. That kind of move might return some young promise and also help set things up down the line. But yeah, it also has that other side, because holding onto him comes with a bit of risk too. If the Mets slip out of the race and Peralta walks later in free agency, then the team could see a real asset walk away , and they wouldn't really get much back at all. Meanwhile if you’re a contender , getting Peralta could bring in a tested starter and that can strengthen the playoff rotation in a straightforward way.Latest update on the Freddy Peralta trade rumorsRight now, the strongest update is simple: the Mets are not actively shopping Freddy Peralta.That could change if New York continues to struggle in the standings, but for now, the organization appears committed to trying to save its season. The trade rumors remain alive because of the team’s record, yet the latest information suggests Peralta is staying put unless circumstances change.FAQs1. Is Freddy Peralta getting traded?Not at the moment. According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, the Mets are not currently shopping him.2. Which team is most likely to acquire Freddy Peralta?No specific team has emerged as a frontrunner. Contending clubs needing pitching would likely have the strongest interest.3. Why would the Mets trade Freddy Peralta?If the team falls further behind in the playoff race, it may consider moving him for future assets rather than risk losing him in free agency.4. When is the MLB trade deadline?The 2026 MLB trade deadline is scheduled for late July.5. What contract is Freddy Peralta reportedly seeking?Reports indicate he could seek a deal comparable to Max Fried’s eight-year, $218 million contract.