The New York Mets have the biggest payroll in MLB history, yet they're an absolute disaster in 2023 and have a minuscule chance of even making the playoffs as a Wild Card team. That means some changes could be coming at the trade deadline next month, with Max Scherzer and Justin Verlander both hearing their names mentioned in rumors.

While neither future Hall of Famer has been asked about their thoughts of being moved, Verlander has made it crystal clear that he is happy as can be in New York, despite the poor campaign for the Mets. This is a place where the right-hander wants to win another World Series.

Via Jon Heyman of The NY Post:

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“I enjoy it here. I want to be here,” Verlander told The Post. “I’m a New York Met. I signed here to win a championship here. I want to leave a legacy here. That’s why I signed up here. Until that’s put on my plate, if it’s ever put on my plate, I don’t think about that stuff.”

For many arms in the big leagues, a 3.47 ERA would be considered respectable. But for Justin Verlander, it's not up to par considering his past success. He's only struck out 70 in 83 innings while walking 26 batters. The consistency we've seen from Verlander over the years hasn't been there.

Regardless, it's no secret that Verlander is an absolute stud and can be an ace for the Mets if they do finally reach their World Series aspirations next year. Plus, if New York did trade him, it would partially close their championship window. He's a difference-maker.