Mets Release Veteran Reliever Jake Diekman, Promote Matt Gage

In a surprising roster move, the New York Mets have designated veteran reliever Jake Diekman for assignment and promoted left-hander Matt Gage from Triple-A Syracuse. Diekman, 37, struggled in recent outings, allowing three runs and four hits over two innings against the Atlanta Braves. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza expressed his respect for Diekman, noting his professionalism and availability throughout the season despite his challenges. Diekman, who has a career record of 27-34 with a 3.91 ERA and 19 saves over 13 seasons with nine teams, has been a part of the Mets since spring training. His departure marks a significant change for the team as they continue to seek improvements in their bullpen performance. Mendoza acknowledged the difficulty of the decision, emphasizing the importance of adapting and finding new talent to enhance the team's competitiveness. In contrast, Gage, 31, has shown promise in the minors, recording three saves in five appearances with Syracuse, striking out seven and walking two in 5 1/3 scoreless innings. A native of upstate New York, Gage's promotion reflects the Mets' ongoing efforts to bolster their pitching staff amid a challenging season. The Mets have faced difficulties in their bullpen, blowing 16 of 44 save opportunities and utilizing a league-high nine pitchers for saves this season. Despite ranking 19th in the majors with a 4.09 bullpen ERA, the team has seen improvement since the All-Star break, indicating potential for growth among their less familiar pitchers.