Freddy Peralta Named Mets’ Opening Day Starter for 2026

New York Mets fans will observe Freddy Peralta capture the mound on Opening Day, March 26th, against the Pittsburgh Pirates. The announcement, made on Friday, February 27, 2026, confirms Peralta as the team’s choice to lead the pitching staff into the new season.

Acquisition and Career Highlights

Peralta was acquired by the Mets from the Milwaukee Brewers on January 21st, along with Tobias Myers, in exchange for prospects Jett Williams and Brandon Sproat. MLB.com reports that the decision to name Peralta the Opening Day starter was not surprising, given his expected role as a frontline starter for the team.

The 29-year-old right-hander had a stellar 2025 season with the Brewers, finishing fifth in the National League Cy Young Award voting. He posted a career-best 17-6 record with a 2.70 ERA in 33 starts. Throughout his eight seasons with Milwaukee, Peralta maintained a 70-42 record with a 3.59 ERA across 211 games, including 162 starts. Sporting News highlighted that Peralta’s performance included 204 strikeouts and a 154 ERA+.

Contract and Future

Peralta is currently earning $8 million this year and will become eligible for free agency following the 2026 season. MLB.com

Early Career

Freddy Peralta Diaz was born on June 4, 1996, in Moca, Dominican Republic. He began his professional career after signing with the Seattle Mariners as an international free agent in April 2013. He was later traded to the Milwaukee Brewers in December 2015. Wikipedia