In a recent interview, Zack Wheeler revealed that he felt a lack of communication from the New York Mets before ultimately signing with the Philadelphia Phillies during the 2019 offseason. Wheeler, who had been with the Mets for nearly six seasons, described the situation as one where he heard “crickets” from his former team as he approached free agency. Despite being a key contributor to the Mets’ pitching staff, Wheeler noted that the Mets did not make any substantial efforts to engage with him about a potential contract extension or offer, which left him feeling unappreciated.
Wheeler’s sentiments were highlighted by his decision to sign a five-year, $118 million contract with the Phillies, a deal that was not only financially rewarding but also signaled the Mets’ lack of urgency in retaining him. He explained that while he had hoped for more communication and a clearer path to remaining in New York, the Mets’ silence made the decision for him. In contrast, the Phillies were proactive, showing a strong interest in him early on and offering a deal that ultimately swayed Wheeler’s decision.
At the time, the Mets had a reputation for being hesitant in their dealings with free agents, especially after letting other key players like Jacob deGrom and Noah Syndergaard approach free agency without securing early extensions. Wheeler’s experience served as a reminder of how crucial team engagement is in retaining talent, as the Phillies’ willingness to step in with an attractive offer helped them land the right-hander.
Wheeler’s move to Philadelphia has since paid off, as he has been a pivotal part of the Phillies’ pitching staff, including a standout performance during their 2022 World Series run. Meanwhile, the Mets have struggled to find consistent pitching, further highlighting the missed opportunity in their handling of Wheeler’s free agency.
