Mets Make Strategic Move with Cedric Mullins
The New York Mets shifted their expectations when they acquired Cedric Mullins from Baltimore, particularly after Jose Ciri suffered a broken leg.
Mullins joined the team late Friday following the trade but wasn’t included in the starting lineup against the Giants at Citi Field. However, manager Carlos Mendoza mentioned that the 30-year-old frequently sees playing time with the Orioles.
Mendoza also indicated that Tyrone Taylor, who started in center field again on Friday, would continue to get opportunities in that position, alongside Jeff McNeill.
The Mets are evidently keen on evaluating the Taylor/McNeill duo while also proceeding with the Mullins acquisition.
“I’ve watched him play,” Mendoza remarked about Mullins. “There’s a lot that goes beyond the numbers; he’s a solid player.”
To accommodate Mullins on the roster, Russanger Acuña was designated to Triple-A Syracuse. Acuña’s participation had been limited to just six games since July 21st.
McNeill, returning to second base on Friday for the first time in two weeks, had Mark Vientos at third base, with Brett Batty on the bench.
Mendoza expressed hopes that the evolving playing time dynamics would foster “healthy competition” among younger infielders.
“This has been a longstanding situation,” the manager added. “There’s a reason these players are here. We trust them to contribute to our success. …We rely on them all.”
Meanwhile, Taylor is set to remain in the lineup for now. Mendoza acknowledged that Taylor’s playing time might lessen but emphasized the team’s appreciation for his defensive skills.
While Taylor has demonstrated commendable defense, his offensive performance has been lackluster, posting just a .278 OPS in his last 29 games.
Mullins’ season with the Orioles has had its ups and downs, particularly against left-handed pitching.
Despite mixed defensive metrics—ranking poorly on Fangraphs—Mendoza recognized Mullins’ strong attributes, including his “jump and route” skills, though he noted fluctuations in defensive performance. “There are years when you might think, ‘That’s odd, he has a really low defensive rating,'” Mendoza said. “But I’ve seen him play, and he’s naturally a great defender.”
Mullins hinted at the possibility of a trade before the upcoming deadline, acknowledging the Orioles’ position in the AL East and his impending free agency. “I didn’t know where I might end up,” he shared about the deal, “but New York feels like the right fit for me.”
He also reflected that his feelings about joining the Mets are similar to his experiences with the Orioles in recent years, stating that his goal in Queens is simple: “To bring a championship back to the town, that’s all.”
