With Max Scherzer Dealt to Texas, New York Mets Listening On Justin Verlander
Max Scherzer is now a member of the Texas Rangers, and the question is will Justin Verlander follow him out the door?
When the Mets completed a blockbuster trade with the Rangers to send Scherzer to Texas for No. 3 overall prospect Luisangel Acuna, the brother of Atlanta Braves superstar Ronald Acuna Jr., it sent shock-waves through Major League Baseball.
A day later those shock-waves are still being felt. As for Scherzer, he told the media on Friday that he wanted to speak to the front office about the direction of the team. A day later he was on his way to Texas.
Scherzer waved his no-trade clause, and opted-in to his 2024 player option to remain a Ranger next season.
The Mets in turn will pay down $35 million of the $58 million Scherzer is owed the next year and a half, with the Rangers picking up only $22.5 million.
No Fire Sale
Even with the trade of Scherzer, GM Billy Eppler stressed that the Mets are not in a fire-sale mode, and they are not punting on being a competitive team in 2024.
Billy Eppler speaks on the Max Scherzer trade:
— SNY (@SNYtv) July 30, 2023
"I do want to be clear that it's not a rebuild. It's not a fire sale. It's not a liquidation. This is just a repurposing of Steve's investment in the club" pic.twitter.com/4PYblfbL0f
As was pointed out by Joel Sherman of the New York Post on Sunday, Steve Cohen — the richest owner in baseball — the Mets are proving they are willing to eat large contracts in order to improve from within, and Cohen has no problem with both retooling the team and playing to win.
EVERYONE WAITS
The questions though abound for those who remain. Will Verlander get dealt on the first year of a three-year deal? Will it be someone else?
Brandon Nimmo sounded like Scherzer when he told reporters Saturday he wanted to speak with the front office. Nimmo just recently signed an eight-year, $162 million pact with the Mets this past winter.
Brandon Nimmo was asked about what the future holds for the Mets after recent trades:
— SNY (@SNYtv) July 30, 2023
"I'm sure Steve and Billy and I will have that conversation at some point. I can't really speculate as to next year right now." pic.twitter.com/IRPGZG7neC
Meanwhile, Verlander stressed he wanted to remain a Met but understood if the organization goes in another direction.
"I'm committed to try and win a championship here, but if the organization decides that that's not the direction that's best fit for next year, I'd be open to it"
— SNY (@SNYtv) July 30, 2023
- Justin Verlander on if he would waive his no-trade clause pic.twitter.com/X35MzmFOXb
SNY’s Andy Martino reported Sunday that while the Mets are listening to offers for Verlander, who won his 250th career game on Sunday, they might end up holding on to him once the deadline passes. Verlander has pitched very well of late. He owns a 1.69 ERA in July. So the asking price would be high for any team to acquire him.
What will the Mets do? That is a huge question, and with the unpredictability of Steve Cohen, we all wait to find out.
5 Passport-Free Getaways Where Travelers Can Explore
Puerto Rico
This Caribbean island is part of the U.S. Puerto Rico has sandy beaches, mountains, waterfalls, and even a tropical rainforest. If you’re a U.S. citizen traveling from anywhere within the U.S., you don’t need to hassle with a passport to visit this paradise. It’s worth mentioning that starting from May 2025, there’s this thing called the Real ID Act that kicks in. If your state isn’t compliant with this Act, you’ll need to bring your trusty passport to explore the wonders of Puerto Rico. So, make sure to check if your state is all set with the Real ID Act before planning your trip.
Sean Pavone/ Getty Images
St. Croix
If you’re craving island vibes, you might want to check out St. Croix. It is part of the U.S. Virgin Islands, you won’t need to worry about bringing your passport when traveling to and from this island.
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Northern Mariana Islands
The Northern Mariana Islands, a collection of 14 tropical wonders has sandy shores, azure waters, and an array of thrilling activities like windsurfing, cavern dives, and jungle treks. And yes, U.S. citizens can venture to these remote islands without the need for a passport. However, it’s important to remember that you’ll need to carry a government-issued proof of identification along with you during your visit.
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St. Thomas
St. Thomas, a Caribbean island known for its white sand beaches, snorkeling opportunities, and Danish colonial architecture. As a U.S. citizen, you won’t need a passport to visit the U.S. Virgin Islands, which includes St. Thomas. However, it’s important to note that if you plan to explore the neighboring British Virgin Islands, a valid passport will be required. For your adventures on St. Thomas, it only requires a government-issued ID with your photo.
SeanPavonePhoto/ Getty Images
St. John
St. John, the smallest of the U.S. Virgin Islands. This island is home to the Salt River Bay National Historical Park and Ecological Preserve, where you can embark on thrilling adventures like scuba diving, hiking, and even discover prehistoric archaeological sites. Since St. John is part of the U.S. Virgin Islands, you can leave your passport at home when traveling there.
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