Zack Wheeler is set to take advantage of free agency.
Wheeler, who appeared in a career-high 195.1 innings last season, is one of the marquee options available on the market. With many teams turning their attention towards acquiring aces Gerrit Cole and Stephen Strasburg, the former Met is attracting a handful of potential suitors, which could lead to a bidding war for his services.
According to a report from The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal, Wheeler's camp already received an offer worth $100 million from an undisclosed team. Rosenthal also expects the length of Wheeler's upcoming deal to land in the five-year range.
Wheeler capitalized on his contract year last season. He struck out 195 batters — the most he's set aside since he debuted in 2013 —and fell one win shy of matching his career best. The 29-year-old declined the Mets' qualifying offer in November, which would've paid the pitcher $17.8 million in 2020.
A decision regarding Wheeler's future could be made very soon. It's "very possible" for Wheeler to sign a deal before Winter Meetings begin on Dec. 8, according to WFAN's baseball insider Jon Heyman.
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, 2019For context of Wheeler's potential five-year deal, the Mets signed Jacob deGrom to the same length for $137.5 million.
The Chicago White Sox are aggressive in their pursuit of Wheeler.
The White Sox, having already signed Yasmani Grandal, were the highest bidders for Wheeler, according to Mets Merized Online's Tim Ryder. Multiple reports indicate teams such as the Reds, Padres and Angels have their sights set on the pitcher, as well.
Mets general manager Brodie Van Wagenen made the decision to hold onto Wheeler at the 2019 trade deadline, knowing the high risk of his potential departure. SNY's Andy Martino reported the Mets attempted to package Wheeler with reliever Jeurys Familia in discussions but no team wanted to take the next two years of Familia's contract.
New York did its part to fill the vacancy Wheeler will eventually leave if he does leave by acquiring Marcus Stroman.
