MLB trader rumors: New York Mets positioned to bag former $38.5 million Boston Red Sox star ahead of Atlanta Braves to bolster rotation

The New York Mets are now seen as the top team likely to sign right-handed pitcher Lucas Giolito as the 2026 MLB season begins. A few National League teams have shown interest, but the Mets look ready to offer more than the Atlanta Braves and close the deal.Giolito had a strong 2025 season with the Boston Red Sox. He finished with a 10-4 record and a 3.41 ERA over 145 innings. Even after that, he is still a free agent. For the Mets, this is a chance to improve a rotation that did not have a clear top starter last year.Reports suggest the Mets could offer a two-year deal worth between $38 million and $44 million. The contract may include bonuses based on innings pitched and overall fitness, considering his recent injuries.• Years: 2 (2026–2027)• Total Value: $38–44M (AARP $19–22M/year)• Incentives: Health-based bonuses (e.g., 140+ innings at $1M/year)• Structure: No opt-outs, full escalators for 15+ wins or 200 IPs annually• Roster Fit: Giolito slots into the Mets’ NL East rotation: 3rd starter behind Senga, ahead of Peterson.The Braves were also interested at one point but are now expected to step away. They are worried about his age and past injuries, including elbow surgery in 2024. Atlanta may choose to save money and rely on other options.For the Mets, Giolito is an upgrade. His 3.41 ERA is better than the team’s rotation ERA of around 4.00 from last season. He also brings more strikeouts. He made 26 starts in 2025, which shows he can stay on the field.There are still concerns. His numbers in 2022 and 2023 were not strong. He also had injuries before. At 31, there is also a question about how long he can keep this level.Giolito Career Stats (2022–2025):Year W L ERA IP SO WHIP BB2022 11 9 4.90 161.2 177 1.44 652023 8 15 4.88 184.1 204 1.31 612025 10 4 3.41 145 121 1.29 56Total 71 66 4.30 1,158.2 1,198 1.26 382Projected Mets Rotation with Giolito2026 Mets Top 5 SP (Projected):No. Name Age ERA (2025) IP WHIP34 Senga 33 3.20 170 1.1035 Holmes 33 3.50 150 1.2051 Peralta 30 3.80 160 1.3023 Peterson 30 3.68 155 1.25New Giolito 31 3.41 145 1.29Also read: MLB trade rumors: Detroit Tigers face blochbuster $140 million decision as Kevin McGonigle's rise reshapes infield plansIf this deal happens, the Mets come out ahead. They add a reliable starter on a short deal. Giolito gets a chance to prove himself again. The Braves keep their budget flexible but may go into the season with fewer strong pitching options.