Baseball trades can be really unexpected. Sometimes players find out about their trades while still on the field—like one former Mets player who recently experienced this firsthand.
Jesus Baez, currently with the Brooklyn Cyclones, was caught in this unusual situation. He was standing on second base when a trade was finalized that sent him to the St. Louis Cardinals in exchange for closer Ryan Helsley.
This transition occurred during a game against the Jersey Shore BlueClaws. As Baez stood there, Jeffrey Delos Santos came in to replace him, marking a quick shift in the game. Baez chuckled as he made his way off the field, perhaps reflecting on his time with the Mets.
As he left the field, both his teammate Marco Vargas and the base coach gave him a warm handshake. Cyclones broadcaster Justin Lock even commented on the moment, noting the significance of their new line-up.
Back in the dugout, many of his teammates showed their support with hugs and high-fives as he made his exit. It was a bittersweet farewell.
Baez will join fellow pitchers Nate Dohm and Frank Elissalt in making the trip to Queens as part of the deal, aiming to bolster the Mets’ bullpen. This trade was finalized just after 8 PM, adding another chapter to the day’s busy trade activities.
Interestingly, this was the second trade for Mets’ president of baseball operations, David Stearns, who had earlier acquired submariner Tyler Rodgers from the Giants. As the trade deadline looms with just hours remaining, it seems there’s a flurry of activity to watch.
