(Frank Franklin II / Associated Press)
Of all the remaining starting pitchers who could possibly be moved before the deadline, no one checks more boxes than Verlander, the three-time Cy Young Award winner in his first season with the New York Mets.
The Dodgers have explored Verlander as a trade option, according to multiple people with knowledge of the situation. The fourth-place Mets have also emerged as likely sellers, after dealing top reliever David Robertson to the Miami Marlins on Thursday.
The Dodgers tried to sign Verlander this past offseason, making a two-year, $80 million offer. Verlander ultimately signed for two years and $86.6 million with the Mets instead. The contract also includes a vesting option for a third season.
The Dodgers might have a chance to acquire him now — though it would likely require a hefty package rich on young talent, particularly with other contenders such as the Houston Astros and Texas Rangers reportedly also showing interest in Verlander.
Verlander began the season on the injured list with an arm strain and owned a 4.50 ERA over his first nine starts. But he’s returned to form recently, posting a 1.46 ERA in his last six outings. Given the 40-year-old’s track record and postseason pedigree as a two-time World Series champion, there may not be a more accomplished pitcher moved at the deadline this year.
And while no deal is imminent at this stage, the Dodgers are interested.