The New York Mets acquired former All-Star closer J.J. Putz in a 12-player trade involving the Seattle Mariners and Cleveland Indians. This transaction, which occurred on a Wednesday night, was reported by USA Today.

Mets Bolster Bullpen with Putz Acquisition

The New York Mets completed a 12-player trade on a Wednesday night, securing former All-Star closer J.J. Putz. The multi-team deal involved the Seattle Mariners and the Cleveland Indians. USA Today reported the Mets' acquisition of Putz, noting the team's move to further strengthen its bullpen.

The trade was described by USA Today as a significant move for the Mets, with the publication suggesting the team "might as well have set up a reception line at the Bellagio hotel" after the deal. The transaction brought Putz, a former All-Star, to the New York Mets roster.

Recent Mets Roster Activity

In other recent roster news, the Mets promoted A.J. Ewing to the major league roster. Ewing, 21, made his MLB debut on a Tuesday, batting eighth and playing center field. In his debut, Ewing went 1-for-2 with a triple, three walks, two RBI, two runs scored, and a stolen base in a 10-2 win over the Tigers. He recorded his first career hit with an RBI-triple in the seventh inning and swiped his first stolen base in the sixth. Ewing demonstrated plate discipline with three walks.

Prior to his major league debut, Ewing had been performing strongly in Double-A and Triple-A, slashing .339/.447/.514 across 30 games. His skills appeared to translate to the big leagues in his initial performance.

Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns addressed the media regarding Ewing's promotion. Stearns stated that the decision to promote Ewing would not have been made if the club did not feel he was ready for the jump. He acknowledged that the situation of the big league club and the current opportunity were factors, but emphasized that Ewing's readiness was paramount. Stearns highlighted Ewing's performance as a "pretty well-rounded player" and noted his maturity and ability to handle various situations within the organization.

Mets manager Carlos Mendoza and president of baseball operations David Stearns appeared in a portrait in the dugout at Mets spring training. Stearns spoke to the media ahead of a six-game homestand against the Tigers and Yankees.

Team Performance and Outlook

The New York Mets currently hold a 15-25 record, which is the worst in baseball. This record comes despite the team having one of the highest payrolls in the sport. Following a 12-game losing streak, the Mets have gone 8-9. The team's offense has struggled, scoring 3.48 runs per game, which ranks as the second-worst offense in the sport thus far. Stearns was expected to address the team's struggles during his media availability.

The Mets are part of Major League Baseball (MLB), which includes teams such as the Arizona Diamondbacks, Atlanta Braves, Baltimore Orioles, Boston Red Sox, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Cubs, Cincinnati Reds, Cleveland Guardians, Colorado Rockies, Detroit Tigers, Houston Astros, Kansas City Royals, Los Angeles Angels, Los Angeles Dodgers, Miami Marlins, Milwaukee Brewers, Minnesota Twins, New York Yankees, Oakland Athletics, Philadelphia Phillies, Pittsburgh Pirates, San Diego Padres, San Francisco Giants, Seattle Mariners, St. Louis Cardinals, Tampa Bay Rays, Texas Rangers, Toronto Blue Jays, and Washington Nationals.

Key Facts

  • The New York Mets acquired J.J. Putz in a 12-player trade.
  • The trade involved the Seattle Mariners and Cleveland Indians.
  • J.J. Putz is a former All-Star closer.
  • A.J. Ewing, 21, made his MLB debut for the Mets, batting eighth and playing center field.
  • The Mets have a 15-25 record, the worst in baseball.
  • David Stearns is the Mets' president of baseball operations.