This was a lot of information to reveal in one interview.
In the middle of a poor season for the Queens team, former New York Mets pitcher Max Scherzer requested a trade somewhere as there was significant uncertainty around the direction of the franchise.
After learning of some unexpected future plans for the Mets organization, the former Dodger was traded to Texas at the trade deadline.
“I talked to Billy. I was like, ‘OK, are we reloading for 2024?’ He goes, ‘No, we’re not. Basically our vision now is for 2025-2026, ’25 at the earliest, more like ’26. We’re going to be making trades around that.’ …
“I was like, ‘So the team is not going to be pursuing free agents this offseason or assemble a team that can compete for a World Series next year?’ He said, ‘No, we’re not going to be signing the upper-echelon guys. We’re going to be on the smaller deals within free agency. ’24 is now looking to be more of a kind of transitory year.'” – Via The Athletic
Although Scherzer seemed to prefer not to wait for a rebuilding year, the Dodgers may benefit from the Mets’ timing of their plan.
After investing heavily in both Scherzer and fellow starting Justin Verlander this previous offseason, Mets owner Steve Cohen hasn’t been afraid to fork over big money for the top free agents.
The Mets officially turned sellers this deadline after a dismal season, and if general manager Billy Eppler’s plan materializes, the Dodgers could benefit from this choice. Scherzer and Verlander were moved.
Shohei Ohtani is expected to enter the market this winter, and if the Mets’ financial situation is really getting to them, the Dodgers’ decision to reduce salary for inexpensive one-year options in a phony season reset might pay off handsomely if the Japanese phenom selects them.
Ohtani’s versatility as a designated hitter and starting pitcher would help the Dodgers address two of their biggest problems in the offseason, despite J.D. Martinez’s outstanding recovery and All-Star season this year as the team’s primary designated hitter.
Chavez Ravine would benefit from the talents of a once-in-a-generation superstar who is continuing to rack up trophies and solidify his already illustrious legacy if Ohtani decides to sign with the Dodgers.
With this information on one of the major adversaries trying to wrest control of the greatest show in baseball away from the Boys in Blue, it appears like former Dodger and current Ranger Scherzer is aiding his old team once more.