As the MLB trade deadline draws closer, speculation surrounding the New York Mets continues to intensify, particularly regarding players on expiring contracts. While much of the attention has centered on starting pitcher Clay Holmes, another veteran may actually be the more likely candidate to be traded now and return to Queens next season.
Holmes entered the season as a potential extension candidate after making the transition from the bullpen to the starting rotation. At one point, there was optimism that the Mets could work out a long-term agreement with the veteran right-hander. However, Holmes recently acknowledged that extension talks never came close to producing a deal, effectively increasing the likelihood that he’ll be moved before the trade deadline.
Even if Holmes is traded, the Mets still have leverage thanks to the qualifying offer. They could extend him a qualifying offer after the season, potentially keeping him in New York for another year on a one-year contract if he accepts. If he declines, the Mets could receive draft-pick compensation while also retaining the opportunity to negotiate a longer-term reunion in free agency.
Still, Holmes may not be the player most likely to return after being dealt.
That distinction could belong to veteran left-handed reliever Brooks Raley, who has quietly become one of the most dependable bullpen arms in the organization.
At 38 years old, Raley has continued to defy expectations with another outstanding campaign. He owns a stellar 2.09 ERA this season and has remained remarkably effective despite his age. Since joining the Mets in a trade orchestrated by former general manager Billy Eppler before the 2023 season, Raley has established himself as one of the bullpen’s most reliable and consistent pitchers.
Across his Mets tenure, Raley has posted an impressive 2.36 ERA over 126 innings, proving to be a valuable late-inning option while adapting through multiple coaching and front-office changes. Although he rarely receives the same attention as some of the club’s bigger names, his consistency has made him one of New York’s most trusted relievers.
The Mets demonstrated their confidence in Raley when they re-signed him following Tommy John surgery before the 2025 season. That decision has paid dividends, as the veteran has successfully returned to form and now represents one of the team’s most attractive trade assets heading into the deadline.
Given his expiring contract and strong performance, Raley could generate significant interest from contenders searching for experienced bullpen help. Trading him would allow the Mets to add future assets while maximizing his value during a season in which he has once again excelled.
What makes Raley’s situation particularly intriguing is the possibility of a reunion immediately after the season.
Unlike some high-priced free agents, Raley is expected to command a relatively affordable short-term contract. A one-year deal, perhaps with a vesting option for an additional season, could be enough to bring him back to New York while allowing him to continue extending his major league career.
Such a move would also address a potential roster need.
If Raley is traded, the Mets would lose one of their few experienced left-handed relievers before the deadline. Combined with the uncertainty surrounding A.J. Minter, whose tenure has been interrupted by injuries, New York will almost certainly be searching for left-handed bullpen help this offseason. Re-signing Raley after acquiring prospects for him at the deadline could represent an ideal scenario.
The strategy isn’t unprecedented in Major League Baseball, although it has been relatively rare for the Mets. The franchise last traded and later re-signed a player in 2018, when Jeurys Familia returned after a midseason deal.
Following significant roster turnover over the past two seasons, the Mets may be hesitant to revisit familiar faces, but Raley appears to be an exception. His performance, clubhouse presence, and familiarity with the organization make him a logical candidate to return if both sides can agree on reasonable contract terms.
Ultimately, the biggest obstacle to a reunion may come down to negotiations. President of baseball operations David Stearns will need to determine whether the financial commitment aligns with the club’s long-term plans. If another team offers additional years or a richer contract, Raley could choose to continue his career elsewhere.
For now, though, Brooks Raley stands out as perhaps the Mets player most likely to be traded at the deadline—only to find himself wearing a New York uniform again when the 2027 season begins.
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