4 Contending Teams That Should Inquire About a Zack Wheeler Trade

Zack Wheeler is expected to be one of the better starting pitching arms on the market come the trade deadline, and for most contending teams, Wheeler would be a nice addition down the stretch. Here are four teams that should ring up the Mets and pursue a deal for the 29-year-old hurler.

1. New York Yankees

If there is one area on the field the Yankees do struggle with, it's consistent starting pitching. With Masahiro Tanaka proving to be unpredictable on the hill, and Luis Severino's continued injury setbacks, the Yankees need a new arm in that rotation come July 31. The Mets said they had no problem dealing Wheeler to the cross town team if the right offer was made, so don't be surprised if the Yanks pull this one off.

2. Houston Astros

The Astros are another team that plan on playing deep into October and they need another starter to compliment Justin Verlander and Gerrit Cole. Houston just lost Brad Peacock for a couple weeks due to injury so being in the mix for Wheeler is an absolute must for the Astros. He'd provide some stability at the back-end of their rotation.

3. Tampa Bay Rays

The Tampa Bay Rays brought the idea into baseball that using an opener for a game is really not a bad idea. However, in the playoffs, that may not be the best option to blow through your bullpen. They are having a great season and will contend for a Wild Card spot. It would be smart if the Rays could make a deal with the Mets and add Wheeler to their rotation that already features studs in Blake Snell and Charlie Morton.

4. Philadelphia Phillies

The Phillies are another contending team that could benefit from getting a starter. Its highly unlikely that the Mets trade Wheeler to their division rival but the Phillies should at least inquire about the 29-year-old. He would be a nice piece to have behind Aaron Nola and Jake Arrieta as Wheeler would solidify the backend of their rotation.