Mets Trade Update

Two out of three acquisitions isn’t bad, right?

As the trade deadline approached, the Mets were focusing on strengthening their bullpen, center field, and possibly improving their starting rotation.

They initially secured some relief before bringing in a center fielder on Thursday, just hours before the deadline, by sending three minor leaguers to the Orioles for Cedric Mullins.

Unfortunately, their hopes for a rotation upgrade didn’t materialize.

Mullins, who’s 30, has been a free agent this season.

In the 91 games he played with the Orioles, he posted a .229/.305/.433 batting line, totaling 15 home runs, 49 RBIs, and 14 stolen bases.

Defensively, he ranked in the 83rd percentile, according to Statcast.

“We really appreciate what he brings to both offense and defense, particularly his athletic ability,” shared Mets’ president David Stearns during a Zoom call. “Players can influence games in ways that aren’t always reflected in statistics, and I think Cedric has that potential.”

“He should fit in well with our style of play, especially in center field,” he added.

The Mets were seeking talent in this position due to the struggles of defensive player Tyrone Taylor. Jeff McNeil has also played center but can now return to second base, freeing him up for more consistent action at the plate.

Stearns indicated that McNeil may still get time in the outfield and also have at-bats designated as DH.

The need for left-handed hitters is especially heightened by Jesse Turnooker’s absence, as he’s now on the 60-day injured list due to back issues, with no expected return until mid-September.

Sources mentioned that the Mets had hoped to acquire Lewis Robert Jr. from the White Sox, but discussions surrounding his contract didn’t reach a resolution.

With that, they turned their attention to Mullins on the same day the Phillies grabbed Harrison Bader from the Twins for their center field needs.

The Mets parted ways with minor leaguers Raimon Gomez, Anthony Nunes, and Chandler Marsh in the trade for Mullins, with Nunes being the highest-rated prospect among them.

This move followed a previous deal where the Mets acquired Tyler Rogers and Ryan Helsley to boost their bullpen.

Recently, they signed a left-handed pitcher, Gregory Soto, from the Orioles as well.

Meanwhile, notable starting pitchers like Sandy Alcantara and Joe Ryan remained with their teams, as there was no movement on that front.

“We were engaged in the starting pitching market,” Stearns remarked. “There are several ways to build a pitching staff, and for now, we felt good about the bullpen we structured.”

He expressed satisfaction with some of their Triple-A players, suggesting they could contribute this season.

Looking internally, two promising pitchers, Nolan McLean and Brandon Sproat, are seen as potential boosts for the team.

Clay Holmes has been a weak link in the rotation, struggling to last deep into games, but Stearns remains hopeful about the right-handed pitchers transitioning from the bullpen to starting roles.

“Physically, Clay is in good shape,” Stearns noted. “He knows he needs to improve on depth during games, and he’s committed to making that happen.”

Lastly, Stearns commended the scouting and player development teams for enabling the Mets to upgrade without giving up their top prospects.

“This deadline has really been about maximizing our talent while enhancing the major league roster,” he concluded.