Mets Preparing for Trade Deadline Needs
David Stearns has pinpointed the Mets’ primary requirement as bolstering their bullpen ahead of the upcoming trade deadline.
The Mets’ president of baseball operations is advocating for external acquisitions, noting, “If for some reason it doesn’t happen,” which suggests a level of concern about the current roster.
Potential candidates include starters Brandon Sproat and Nolan McLean. While McLean isn’t yet in the major league relief conversation, he has recently made strides within the bullpen as the season nears its conclusion.
Both Sproat and McLean are among top performers in Triple-A Syracuse and are being considered for promotion.
After a rocky start, Sproat has rebounded impressively, going 23 innings without allowing a run. McLean, on the other hand, has been steadier, with a 2.58 ERA over 17 games split between Syracuse and Double-A Binghamton this season.
Interestingly, the Mets’ rotation, which faced injuries earlier in the season, is now looking healthier.
Stearns has expressed a clear preference against converting minor league starters into bullpen help. “If you do that during the season, you can’t turn yourself around in the same season,” he remarked, emphasizing the need for caution.
Stearns previously explored top starters like Corbin Burnes and Freddie Peralta during his time with the Brewers, indicating that such strategies might still be on the table for the Mets.
Moreover, Sproat and McLean could fill gaps in the rotation if needed, though Stearns acknowledges that they might spend the entire season in the minors. He feels there’s no rush but is pleased with their development. “I think both have made significant progress in the last three weeks,” he said. “I’m eager to see how they continue to develop. I believe either could be ready if called upon in the upcoming months.”
In other updates, Sterling Marte is nearing a return, potentially within “a few days,” as he continues to improve after missing time with a knee bruise since July 6th. Manager Mendoza noted that he does not believe Marte requires a rehab assignment.
Meanwhile, Jose Bato is also expected back soon after completing a scoreless outing with Syracuse during his rehab. However, Mendoza is uncertain if Bato will require another game before returning.
Paul Blackburn, dealing with a right shoulder issue, is set to begin his second rehab assignment in Syracuse soon.
In roster news, the Mets have brought back right-hander Rico Garcia, who had a brief stint with the Yankees before facing designation for assignment. He has been with Syracuse this season and pitched a couple of games for the Mets earlier this month.
Additionally, Richard Labelady has cleared waivers and will be joining the Syracuse team, while Dedniel Núñez, recovering from elbow surgery, has been placed on the 60-day injured list.
