Mets Make Roster Changes After Tough Dodgers Game

New York, NY — After a grueling 13-inning loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers, the New York Mets announced several roster moves on Saturday. The Mets recalled left-handed pitcher Brandon Waddell and versatile infielder Jared Young from Triple-A Syracuse.

To make space on the active roster, the team designated left-handed reliever Génesis Cabrera and outfielder José Azócar for assignment. Cabrera, who turned 28, had joined the Mets’ bullpen following injuries to A.J. Minter and Danny Young.

In six appearances with New York, Cabrera posted a 3.52 ERA and an impressive 8.2 K/9 rate. However, his recent outing, where he threw 20 pitches on Friday, left him unavailable for Saturday’s matchup.

The Mets utilized eight bullpen pitchers in their loss to the Dodgers, a game that lasted nearly six hours, partly due to a 98-minute rain delay. With Cabrera sidelined, Waddell, 30, is set for his second chance in the major leagues. He had previously made his first MLB appearance in nearly four years on April 30 and had thrown 4.1 scoreless innings against the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Jared Young, 29, is slated to bat seventh on Saturday, marking his first MLB game in two years. While playing in Syracuse, Young recorded a .259 batting average with five home runs and 21 RBIs over 97 plate appearances. His ability to fill in all four infield positions and both corner outfield spots adds valuable depth to the team.

Azócar, also 29, had minimal playing time with the Mets, contributing a .278 batting average in 12 games. He served as a pinch runner for Pete Alonso during Friday’s game but may now face uncertainty with his status on the team.

The Mets now have to either trade Cabrera and Azócar or place them on waivers. If they clear waivers, they can opt for free agency instead of accepting a minor league assignment since they have been outrighted before.