As expected, the New York Mets have traded veteran ace Justin Verlander to the Houston Astros. In return, the team will receive two minor-league players: outfielders Drew Gilbert and Ryan Clifford.
Verlander, 40, is in the first season of a two-year pact worth more than $86 million. Depending on his innings count next season, he can use a conditional player option for 2025 worth another $35 million.
According to the New York Post, the Mets are sending $35 million to cover part of Verlander’s salary for 2023 and 2024, then half of the additional $35 million if the option vests for 2025.
Verlander, three-time Cy Young winner, has a 3.15 ERA (131 ERA+) and a 2.61 strikeout-to-walk ratio over 16 starts this season.
