Mets Acquire Ryne Stanek to Strengthen Bullpen

In a strategic move to enhance their bullpen, the New York Mets have acquired right-handed pitcher Ryne Stanek from the Seattle Mariners in exchange for minor league outfielder Rhylan Thomas. The trade was finalized on Friday night, coinciding with Stanek's 33rd birthday. This season, Stanek has recorded a 6-3 record with a 4.38 ERA and seven saves over 46 relief appearances, although he has faced challenges recently, posting a 1-2 record and a 6.45 ERA in his last nine outings. The trade comes shortly after the Mariners bolstered their own roster by acquiring Yimi García from Toronto. As part of the deal, Stanek will receive a $250,000 assignment bonus in addition to his $4 million salary, with potential bonuses for pitching in 50, 60, and 70 games. The Mets are currently dealing with significant injuries in their pitching staff, including the season-ending surgeries of Drew Smith and Brooks Raley, and the recent placement of rookie Dedniel Núñez on the 15-day injured list due to a right pronator strain. In addition to Stanek, the Mets had previously acquired right-hander Phil Maton from Tampa Bay on July 9, further indicating their commitment to strengthening their bullpen amid injury challenges. Rhylan Thomas, the player traded to Seattle, is a 24-year-old outfielder who was selected by the Mets in the 11th round of the 2022 draft and has shown promise with a .265 batting average, five home runs, and 31 RBIs in 74 games across Double-A and Triple-A.