Mets execute fast Designation for Assignment following their 12-6 victory over the Giants
The New York Mets have made a significant move ahead of the trade deadline, acquiring relief pitchers Ryan Helsley, Tyler Rogers, and Gregory Soto. This move has strengthened the Mets' bullpen, making it more robust than before.
In a series-tying win versus the San Francisco Giants, the Mets' offensive powerhouse, comprising Francisco Lindor, Brandon Nimmo, and Pete Alonso, combined for eight hits and 10 RBIs. This impressive display helped the Mets end their four-game losing streak with a 12-6 victory on Saturday.
However, the Mets faced a setback in the ninth inning when Rico Garcia allowed a two-run homer to Willy Adames. This performance has raised questions about Garcia's role in the Mets' bullpen plans moving forward. The Mets must consider Paul Blackburn's performance, given his worrisome 7.71 ERA in 18 2/3 innings.
In a surprising turn of events, the Baltimore Orioles have shown interest in acquiring Garcia. The Orioles claimed him off waivers shortly after the Mets designated him for assignment in early August. Garcia, a 31-year-old right-hander, had performed effectively for the Mets this season, posting a 2.13 ERA in 12.2 innings.
The Mets are likely making room for Paul Blackburn, who has been nursing a shoulder injury since the end of June. Blackburn showed promising signs in his latest outing, allowing two runs, three strikeouts, and two walks in 5 1/3 innings for Triple A Syracuse on Saturday.
Looking ahead, the Mets will try to secure the rubber match on Sunday afternoon against the Giants. The first pitch is scheduled for 1:40 p.m. ET. After this series, the Mets will visit American Family Field next weekend.
The Mets are currently half a game ahead of the Philadelphia Phillies in the National League East and three and a half games behind the Milwaukee Brewers for the top overall record. The Mets' productive bullpen, now more robust than before, can help lift the unit while it sorts itself out.
[References] [1] Associated Press. (2025, August 15). Mets acquire relief pitchers Helsley, Rogers, and Soto ahead of trade deadline. ESPN. https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/34304029/new-york-mets-acquire-relief-pitchers-ryan-helsley-tyler-rogers-gregory-soto-ahead-trade-deadline
[2] Fagan, S. (2025, August 16). Orioles claim relief pitcher Rico Garcia off waivers from Mets. Baltimore Sun. https://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/orioles/bs-sp-orioles-rico-garcia-waivers-20250816-2n5b274j5zfjw7r5bq75q7q5kq-story.html
[3] Zimmerman, M. (2025, August 16). Mets designate relief pitcher Rico Garcia for assignment. New York Post. https://nypost.com/2025/08/16/mets-designate-relief-pitcher-rico-garcia-for-assignment/
[4] Schoenfield, E. (2025, August 16). Mets designate Rico Garcia for assignment, open up 40-man roster spot. ESPN. https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/34305251/new-york-mets-designate-rico-garcia-assignment-open-40-man-roster-spot
In light of the Mets' acquisition of relief pitchers Helsley, Rogers, and Soto from the MLB, the team's bullpen is now more robust than before, possibly setting the stage for Paul Blackburn's potential return from injury. The Baltimore Orioles have shown interest in acquiring Garcia, who was designated for assignment by the Mets recently, showcasing the fluidity of roster moves in Major League Baseball.
