By Sunday 
As the MLB season rolls into its middle stretch, the New York Mets find themselves in an oddly familiar place—dominant on the mound, yet walking a tightrope of injury risk and depth concerns. Their rotation has been stellar, no doubt. But let’s be honest—it feels like they’re one tweaked hamstring away from chaos. Which is why all eyes are turning toward Minnesota and one name in particular: Pablo Lopez.
The Ace on the Radar
Pablo Lopez has quietly become one of the best arms in baseball, and he’s not so under-the-radar anymore. The 28-year-old Twins righty has been throwing gas early this season, posting a sharp 2.25 ERA while fanning 26 and walking just four. Those are elite numbers—and even more impressive considering he’s only in year two of a four-year, $73.5 million contract.
Zachary Howell of ClutchPoints recently floated a trade proposal involving Lopez and the Mets, noting the buzz around his name as the deadline creeps closer.
“Lopez’s name is also popular in the trade deadline conversation as the Twins come to terms with the fact that they are far from contention in the American League,” Howell wrote. “The team’s struggles to start the season aren’t because of their ace, though… he has one of the best ERAs of any of Minnesota’s starters, but lacks the run support necessary for his record to reflect his impact.”
Mets’ Rotation: Strong But Vulnerable
Sure, the Mets rotation has been fire—but not without complications. Frankie Montas and Sean Manaea have been banged up, and while Kodai Senga has been holding it down, the depth behind him isn’t as bulletproof as fans might hope. That’s where Lopez could slide in like the missing puzzle piece.
“Mendoza would love to have another arm to turn to,” Howell added. And really, who wouldn’t?
But What’s the Price?
Now here’s where things get interesting. According to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale, Lopez is already attracting attention from multiple contending teams. The catch? It won’t come cheap.
“Several contenders are keeping a close eye on Minnesota Twins ace Pablo Lopez,” Nightengale noted. “Lopez… is in the second year of a four-year, $73.5 million contract that the Twins could unload this summer if their free-fall continues.”
Translation: If the Mets want him, they may need to open up the farm system. Top prospects could be in play, and we all know how hesitant teams are to part with future stars—no matter how badly they need help now.
Smart Move or Overkill?
Look, the Mets have needs beyond pitching. A strong offensive addition wouldn’t hurt. But pitching is the backbone of postseason success, and a guy like Lopez can easily shift the balance of a playoff series.
If New York wants to maintain their edge in the ultra-competitive NL East, pulling the trigger on this deal might be their smartest play yet.
Let’s just hope the Twins keep struggling… and picking up the phone.