With Frankie Montas sidelined for at least six to eight weeks due to a lat strain, the Mets’ need for another reliable starter has become more urgent. Even before the injury, their rotation carried uncertainty, making a move for an experienced arm a logical next step.
The St. Louis Cardinals could be an ideal trade partner. The team has been looking to offload salary as part of their offseason rebuild, making right-hander Erick Fedde—on a one-year, $7.5 million deal—a realistic target for the Mets.
Fedde is coming off a strong season in which he posted a 3.30 ERA, and his presence could stabilize a Mets rotation lacking proven depth.
So, what might a trade look like? The Mets could offer a package centered around a young, controllable arm or a depth bat. Possible options include:
- José Butto (RHP) – The 25-year-old right-hander has shown flashes of potential but remains unproven as a full-time starter. The Cardinals could take a chance on his upside while continuing their rotation reshuffle.
- Mark Vientos (3B/1B) – With the Cardinals exploring ways to move Nolan Arenado, a young corner infielder like Vientos could intrigue them as a potential long-term option at third base or designated hitter.
- Dominic Hamel (RHP, Mets’ No. 10 prospect) – A solid mid-level prospect, Hamel could fit the Cardinals’ desire to develop young pitching depth.
Would St. Louis bite on such an offer? That depends on how eager they are to move Fedde, but given the Mets’ urgency and the Cardinals’ willingness to deal, there’s a real possibility of a match.
A trade scenario where the Mets acquire Erick Fedde in exchange for Brett Baty and Carson Benge could be a logical move for both teams, but it might be an overpay on New York’s part.
Why This Trade Makes Sense for the Mets
The Mets need immediate rotation help with Frankie Montas sidelined, and Fedde could be a solid middle-of-the-rotation addition. Coming off a 3.30 ERA season, he provides stability and durability—two things New York’s pitching staff lacks. However, he is only under contract for one year at $7.5 million, making him a short-term solution rather than a long-term asset.
Why This Trade Makes Sense for the Cardinals
St. Louis is clearly retooling, and while they aren’t entering a full rebuild, they’re looking to move off expendable contracts. Adding Baty gives them a controllable infielder who could potentially replace Nolan Arenado if they manage to move him. While Baty has struggled in the majors, his minor-league success and raw power make him a valuable reclamation project.
Benge, meanwhile, is an intriguing outfield prospect with strong plate discipline and upside. While still a couple of years away from the big leagues, he could be a key piece for the Cardinals’ long-term outfield plans.
Would the Mets Be Giving Up Too Much?
Baty and Benge for a one-year rental of Fedde seems like an overpay. A more reasonable package could see the Mets offering one of these players—not both—along with a lower-level prospect. Alternatively, if the Mets are set on moving both, they should at least push for an additional piece from St. Louis, perhaps a bullpen arm or a depth bat.
In short, this trade framework is realistic, but the Mets should look to negotiate a more balanced return given Fedde’s status as a short-term rental.
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