Former New York Mets right-hander Zack Wheeler could reportedly ink a new contract prior to this offseason’s Winter Meetings.
Where will Zack Wheeler pitch next season? Well, that’s still undetermined, as multiple teams are bidding for the free-agent right-hander. However, there are a few things that fans have been made aware of.
For one, he could receive a deal that’s along the lines of five years and $100-$110 million. And now, it’s being reported that Wheeler could actually make his decision on who to sign with prior to the Winter Meetings. Jon Heyman of MLB Network reported on it on Tuesday morning. The Winter Meetings are set to take place from Dec. 8-12.
Hearing Zack Wheeler deal before the Winter Meetings is very possible — maybe even probable. @Ken_Rosenthal reported bidding has already hit $100M, not a surprise considering age, innings, velocity, potential and signs of dominance. White Sox, Twins, Rangers, others in.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) December 3, 2019
Wheeler recently rejected the New York Mets‘ qualifying offer. He could still ink a long-term deal with them. However, it’s unclear if he’d want to return to Queens. There’s a possibility he could receive more money if he signs elsewhere.
If Wheeler does indeed sign with another team, it would end his run with the Mets which expanded across five separate seasons. He pitched in the majors from 2013-14 and then again from 2017-19.
Teams that are interested in Wheeler include the Chicago White Sox, Minnesota Twins, and Texas Rangers. New York Yankees general manager Brian Cashman additionally noted that the organization would be “checking in” on Wheeler.
Last year, Wheeler posted a record of 11-8 with an ERA of 3.96 and a WHIP of 1.259. He struck out 195 batters and walked 50 through 31 starts (195.1 total innings pitched). Throughout his career (126 starts), he’s posted a record of 44-38 with an ERA of 3.77.
