Astros Reportedly Met With Zack Wheeler's Agent on Monday
By Michael Luciano
With Gerrit Cole poised to hit free agency and earn over $300 million on the open market, the Houston Astros might look for more cost-effective options to keep their rotation in top shape.
One of those options could be Mets flamethrower Zack Wheeler. The Astros have long coveted Wheeler, and met with his agents Monday as they prepare to woo him to Houston.
Astros, who have long liked Zack Wheeler, met today with his agents BB Abbott, Andrew Lowenthal and others from Jet Sports. Wheeler’s robust market likely enhanced by big postseason for teams with great starters (Nats, Astros — who may lose Cole — etc.)
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) November 12, 2019
Wheeler, who missed two full seasons due to injury, overcame a sluggish start to the season and posted a 3.96 ERA. He topped his career high in innings (195.1) and strikeouts (195) this season with the Mets.
At just 30 years old and with plenty of gas left in the tank, expect Wheeler to command north of $100 million on the open market this offseason.
Mets are interested in multiyear deal with Zack Wheeler, who will decline $17.8M qualifying offer. If they can’t get Wheeler they will consider trades and other free agents to acquire a starter. Last alternative would be to move Lugo or Gsellman into rotation.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) November 12, 2019
Astros pitching coach Brent Strom brought Justin Verlander back from the dead and turned Cole into a monster, so Houston must see some of that same potential in Wheeler on what would be a much better bargain.