Mets and Yankees Reportedly Not in Lead for Free Agent Zack Wheeler

MLB free agency officially began on November 4th, but now, it really feels like the action is getting started.

Rumors on big-name free agents are starting to circulate, including those concerning Zach Wheeler, who garnered notable trade deadline interest only to stay put and run out his contract with the New York Mets.

The first rumor of note is that Wheeler is expected to sign relatively early compared to other names, such as Gerrit Cole.

More importantly, however, is that neither the Mets nor the Yankees are considered the frontrunners to land Wheeler, as the Angels, Padres, Twins, and White Sox are apparently all ahead of them.

Both Yankees GM Brian Cashman and Mets GM Brodie Van Wagenen have been in talks with Wheeler about a potential multi-year contract, but nothing serious has been discussed yet.

Another team currently involved in the Wheeler sweepstakes? The Houston Astros, who met with the pitcher's representatives on November 11. They're looking to find another arm with the possibility of Cole departing, and he could fit the bill.

When even bigger names Cole, Anthony Rendon, and Stephen Strasburg start taking free agent visits, the offseason might as well explode. But for now, keep an eye on Wheeler as one of the players who could help get the offseason frenzy rolling.