SCHERZER: A TEXAS-SIZED ADDITION!
The Texas Rangers acquired pitcher Max Scherzer and cash from the New York Mets for infielder Luisangel Acuna.
What does it give the Texas Rangers
Scherzer will now become the ace of the Rangers staff that lost Jacob deGrom to Tommy John surgery earlier in the season. He is having a down year compared to his Hall-of-Fame standards, but Scherzer will fortify one of the league's best rotations down the stretch and into the playoffs. His addition makes Texas an instant World Series contender in the American League, if they were not already. The Rangers even convinced Scherzer to pick up his contract option for the 2024 season.
What does it give the New York Mets
The Mets made out about as good as any team could when trading away a pitcher of Scherzer's caliber. Acuna is considered a legitimate high-end prospect in the baseball world. He instantly becomes one of the Mets' best prospects. The younger brother of Ronald Acuna has put up big numbers in Double-A ball this season (.315, 7 HR, 51 RBI, 42 SB). He should reach the majors sooner rather than later. The Mets will also send cash to cover all but $22.5 million of Scherzer's salary.
Fantasy impact
Scherzer has not been the same fantasy pitcher this season as per usual, but expect that to change. With his big-game reputation, and playing on a top team once again, his fantasy impact should return to previous levels. While there is no guarantee he will reach the same fantasy impact as his older brother, Acuna's hitting/speed package is similar. It should make him a valuable fantasy player very soon. Keeper-league owners should get him now! For yearly leagues, Acuna still might be worth picking up down the stretch.
