Mets Seek to Extend Ace Freddy Peralta's Contract

Peralta demands a long-term deal as the Mets look to keep their new star pitcher beyond this season.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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The New York Mets acquired star pitcher Freddy Peralta in a blockbuster trade with the Milwaukee Brewers at the end of January. However, Peralta is in the final year of his contract and is reportedly seeking a long-term extension of either seven or eight years in length, which the Mets will need to navigate if they want to keep the ace in their rotation for the foreseeable future.

Why it matters

Peralta was the centerpiece of the Mets' trade with the Brewers, and the team gave up top prospects to acquire him. Keeping Peralta long-term is crucial for the Mets, who are looking to build a contending rotation after missing the playoffs in 2025 due to a lack of starting pitching depth.

The details

Peralta had a standout 2025 season, going 17-6 with a 2.70 ERA in 33 starts and helping the Brewers reach the NLCS. The Mets are hoping to lock him up with a long-term extension, but Peralta is demanding a deal of either seven or eight years in length, which could be a challenge for the team to accommodate.

  • The Mets acquired Peralta in a trade with the Brewers at the end of January 2026.
  • Peralta is in the final year of his current contract.

The players

Freddy Peralta

A right-handed starting pitcher who was the centerpiece of the Mets' trade with the Brewers. Peralta is seeking a long-term extension with the Mets.

New York Mets

The MLB team that acquired Peralta in a trade and is now looking to sign him to a long-term extension.

Milwaukee Brewers

The MLB team that traded Peralta to the Mets at the end of January 2026.

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What they’re saying

“Peralta is looking for a deal that is either seven or eight years long.”

— Jon Heyman, New York Post reporter (New York Post)

What’s next

The Mets will need to negotiate with Peralta and his representatives to try to reach an agreement on a long-term contract extension before the start of the 2026 season.

The takeaway

Keeping Freddy Peralta long-term is a top priority for the Mets after trading away valuable prospects to acquire him. However, Peralta's contract demands could make it challenging for the team to reach a deal, putting the future of their new ace in question.