Mets Trade David Peterson to Cubs After Brutal Loss That Even Jeff Passan Mocked

The New York Mets made a bad loss even worse on Wednesday. And then they made a trade.

Hours after a sloppy, error-filled performance against the Chicago Cubs — one that prompted ESPN’s Jeff Passan to take a shot at them on social media — the Mets shipped left-handed pitcher David Peterson to the same team that just embarrassed them.

Passan broke the news himself, adding a layer of irony that’s hard to miss. “Trade news: The Chicago Cubs are acquiring left-hander David Peterson from the New York Mets, sources tell ESPN,” he wrote.

Peterson won’t have to change hotels. He was already in Chicago for the series. Now he’ll just switch clubhouses.

What the Cubs Are Getting in Peterson

Peterson, 28, has been a swingman for the Mets over the past few seasons. He’s started games, worked out of the bullpen, and never quite locked down a permanent role. His career ERA sits around 4.50, and he’s dealt with injuries, including hip surgery last year that kept him out for months.

For the Cubs, they’re adding depth. Maybe a guy who can eat innings down the stretch. It’s not a splashy move, but it fills a need for a team that’s still technically in the wild-card mix.

The trade signals something about the Mets too. They’re not pretending anymore. This season has gone sideways in a hurry. They came in with World Series expectations and instead they’re peddling spare parts in late July while getting roasted on Twitter by national reporters.

Passan’s earlier jab wasn’t even about the trade. He just pointed out how bad the Mets looked in real time. And then, hours later, the front office effectively agreed with him by making a deal with the team that beat them.

What Happens Next for New York

The Mets have other decisions to make before the trade deadline. Pete Alonso’s name keeps coming up in rumors. Justin Verlander and Max Scherzer are already gone. The front office might not be done selling.

Peterson was under team control through next season, so the return matters. The Mets got a low-level prospect back, according to reports. Nothing that’ll change the franchise overnight. But it’s something.

For now, Chicago gets a lefty who can step in right away. The Mets get to keep losing without him. And Jeff Passan gets to say he called the whole thing.