Photo: Instagram/Justin Verlander Mets star Justin Verlander is at the center of trade rumors as the New York Mets undergo a fire sale. The Los Angeles Dodgers have expressed interest in acquiring him, but Verlander apparently prefers a return to the Houston Astros. The Astros, who are still in discussions with Verlander, are seen as his preferred destination due to his relationship with owner Jim Crane. The Mets would likely prefer the Dodgers as a trade partner, given their strong farm system ranking, but Verlander's full no-trade clause allows him to dictate where he goes. Photo: Instagram/Justin Verlander If the Mets aim for a short-term reset and bolstering their farm system, accommodating Verlander's preference for New York becomes the logical course of action. Although Verlander's performance hasn't matched his Cy Young-winning season from the previous year, he remains a valuable asset, having recorded a 6-5 record with a 3.15 ERA, 1.14 WHIP, and 81 strikeouts ...