Luke Weaver wanted to remain with Mets before trade to Pirates

In the United States, Luke Weaver's time with the New York Mets was brief, culminating in a trade to the Pittsburgh Pirates on August 3, 2023, the final day of the MLB trade deadline. Weaver, a right-handed reliever, expressed his desire to remain with the Mets, stating he communicated this wish directly to the team's front office. He had signed a two-year, $22 million contract with the Mets in December 2022, indicating his commitment to the team. However, the Mets opted to trade him for shortstop Sammy Stafura, who is now recognized as the Mets' No. 11 overall prospect. This decision was made despite Weaver having another season left on his contract, contrasting with other players on expiring contracts that could have been traded instead. Mets President of Baseball Operations David Stearns explained that the organization believed the returns from the trade were beneficial for the team's future, particularly in acquiring promising talent in exchange for relief pitching. The trade also included right-hander Huascar Brazoban, who was under team control through 2027, further emphasizing the Mets' strategy to enhance their roster for the long term. The decision to trade both Weaver and Brazoban, despite their contractual situations, reflects the Mets' focus on building a competitive team by leveraging their relief pitching assets for potential future stars.