Report: Rangers, Astros linked to Verlander ahead of deadline

It's believed that the New York Mets may end up trading right-hander Justin Verlander, sources told Mark Feinsand of MLB.com.

The Texas Rangers are reportedly likely a front-runner for Verlander because they're looking for starting pitching and are planning to be aggressive before the Aug. 1 deadline.

The Rangers pursued the three-time Cy Young winner during the offseason before he joined the Mets, according to Feinsand.

The Houston Astros are reportedly also interested in a reunion with Verlander. The 40-year-old won two titles during a sensational four-plus seasons with the club between 2017-22.

Verlander's in the first campaign of a two-year, $86.7-million deal he signed with the Mets before this season. His contract also includes a $35-million vesting option for 2025 that becomes a player option if he throws 140 innings in 2024.

The nine-time All-Star owns a 3.24 ERA with 1.15 WHIP and 76 strikeouts over 89 innings (15 starts) for the underperforming Mets in 2023.