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Peralta Named Mets' Opening Day Starter With Extension Talks Still Stalled

Peralta seeks a long-term commitment, reflecting a contrast with David Stearns’ history of shorter deals for starting pitchers.

Overview

  • Ken Rosenthal reports the Mets and Freddy Peralta have not held serious extension discussions to this point.
  • Peralta, on a one-year $8 million deal before 2026 free agency, said he prefers a long-term pact to finish his career in one place.
  • David Stearns has rarely given pitchers contracts longer than three years, underscoring a philosophical gap with Peralta’s preference.
  • Coming off a 2025 season with a 2.70 ERA and 204 strikeouts, Peralta’s market value is rising, and some outlets have projected a possible four-year, $112 million range, which remains speculative.
  • The Mets have tabbed Peralta for Opening Day, and a reported six-man rotation plan that keeps him on a standard schedule has drawn concern about disrupting other starters as the team manages Kodai Senga’s rest needs.