Murray: Tampa Bay Rays Have "Shown Interest" in Freddy Peralta

The New York Mets are approaching the trade deadline as clear sellers, with their focus centered on moving impending free agents rather than filling holes on the major league roster. Their most appealing trade asset is a front-line starting pitcher, although a disappointing second half could dampen the return. Outside of those rentals, New York’s trade inventory is relatively thin, relying more on struggling veterans and prospects whose stock has slipped than on premium young talent.

Robert Murray of FanSided is reporting that the Tampa Bay Rays have "shown interest" in New York Mets starter Freddy Peralta.

The Rays bring plenty of trade capital to the table, headlined by one of the deepest farm systems in baseball and a payroll situation clean enough to take on money if needed. Their willingness to move even really productive players, evidenced by trading a top offensive second baseman away just months ago, shows they won’t hesitate to deal from a position of organizational depth rather than need. That combination of prospect capital and financial flexibility puts them in position to be aggressive with sellers looking to move MLB-ready talent before the deadline.

Peralta, 30, is set to be a free agent at season's end. Despite looking like an ace with the Milwaukee Brewers, he has struggled with the Mets this year, posting a 4.99 ERA (4.47 FIP) with a career-low 12.7% strikeout-minus-walk (K-BB) rate.

The Rays feel like a dangerous organization to trade with given their penchant for identifying and developing talent. Do you think the Mets should partner with them on a deal? Join the conversation in the comments!