2 Players Elect Free Agency, 2 Players Claimed Amid Flurry Of Mets Roster Moves


The New York Mets initiated a flurry of roster moves on Monday, signaling a clear shift as they gear up for the 2025 season. 

Outfielder DJ Stewart, along with left-handers Joey Lucchesi and Matt Gage, was outrighted to Triple-A Syracuse. 

Both Stewart and Lucchesi opted for free agency, while Gage remains with Syracuse for added pitching depth. Meanwhile, the Mets claimed infielder Luis De Los Santos off waivers from the Toronto Blue Jays and right-hander Kevin Herget from the Milwaukee Brewers. 

Herget, who impressed with a 1.59 ERA in limited major league action last season, will bolster the bullpen, and De Los Santos provides infield versatility after slashing .260/.375/.441 in Triple-A.

In further roster adjustments, the Mets reinstated several key players from the 60-day IL, including right-handers Paul Blackburn, Sean Reid-Foley, and Christian Scott, along with infielder Ronny Mauricio, who missed the 2024 season with a torn ACL. 

"We’re excited to see what Mauricio can bring in a healthy 2025," a team representative shared, showing their high hopes for the young infielder's return. 

Additionally, the Mets declined their 2025 team option on reliever Phil Maton, making him a free agent, while left-hander Sean Manaea declined his $14.5 million player option after a strong season that saw him emerge as the rotation leader.

The Mets also extended qualifying offers of $21.05 million to both Manaea and right-hander Luis Severino, allowing each pitcher the option to test free agency or return on a one-year deal. 

Manaea shone in the second half of 2024 with a 2.91 ERA, while Severino revitalized his career with a solid 3.91 ERA across a career-high 182 innings. 

Should either pitcher decline the offer and sign elsewhere, New York would receive a compensatory draft pick.

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