Mets trade rumors: Club not 'actively shopping' Zack Wheeler

New York had an opportunity to move Zack Wheeler over the summer but ended up keeping him, and at this point they do not appear inclined to move him. The Mets are "not actively shopping" Wheeler, according to Newsday's Marc Carig.

In a deal that ultimately fell apart, the Mets were prepared to send Wheeler and infielder Wilmer Flores to the Brewers in exchange for outfielder Carlos Gomez. Although the deal was not made, Milwaukee notably appeared open to adding Wheeler, who is coming off of Tommy John surgery.

While Wheeler is not expected to be healthy enough to pitch until July, other major league clubs could still view him as an upgrade within their rotations. If the Mets were open to dealing him last summer, there remains a chance they consider doing so again this off-season. The organization has several young arms to build around but might move at least one heading into 2016.

Wheeler, 25, tossed 185.1 innings with the Mets in 2014 and pitched to a 3.54 ERA and 3.55 FIP. Before he got hurt during spring training, Wheeler was considered a top of the rotation arm because of his fastball and plus curveball.

Since Wheeler will not be a free agent until 2020 and has proven he can be a reliable starting option, the Mets will likely receive numerous inquiries with regard to his availability. He is controllable and consistent, two things most major clubs likely look for when seeking pitchers to add.

Before the trade deadline, Wheeler was still not very close to returning to a mound. Now that appears on track to return this summer, he might become valuable, which could result in the Mets requesting more in return.

Wheeler has had a lot of success in his brief major league career and he could be moved this winter. And if he isn't, the Mets' rotation will be even better next summer.