The New York Mets have shaken up their roster amid a challenging stretch of games, sending rookie infielder Luisangel Acuña down to the minors. This move comes as part of a series of roster adjustments announced on Monday.
The Mets have also bolstered their bullpen by signing left-handed reliever Richard Lovelady to a one-year contract, and they’ve called up veteran outfielder Travis Jankowski from Triple-A Syracuse. Both players are set to be available for the start of the Mets’ four-game series against the Atlanta Braves.
Acuña, notable for being the younger sibling of Braves’ standout Ronald Acuña Jr., has been optioned to Syracuse, along with right-handed pitcher Tyler Zuber, following a tough 7-1 loss to the Philadelphia Phillies. This decision also follows the recent demotion of catcher Francisco Alvarez to Syracuse.
Struggling through a rough patch, the Mets have lost eight of their last nine games, slipping a game behind the Phillies in the National League East standings. Acuña, acquired from the Texas Rangers in exchange for Max Scherzer in 2023, began the season strongly, earning NL rookie of the month honors for March and April by batting .308 with six stolen bases. However, his performance has dipped, leaving him with a .241 batting average and primarily in a role as a pinch runner or defensive substitute. Regular playtime is anticipated for him in Syracuse to regain form.
In other updates, pitcher Kodai Senga shared promising news regarding his recovery from a hamstring injury. Senga, sidelined since June 12 after an incident during a game against Washington, communicated via a translator that his injury is healing well, and he expects to begin rehabilitation soon.
Senga has managed to keep his arm in game-ready condition even while recovering. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza conveyed optimism about Senga’s progress, noting that the pitcher was nearly ready to commence throwing on a mound, marking a significant step in his recovery. Prior to his injury, Senga had an impressive start to the season, securing a 7-3 record with a 1.47 ERA.
Outfielder Travis Jankowski returns to a familiar setting with the Mets, having previously played in 43 games for the team in 2022. After signing a minor league deal in June, Jankowski brings experience from his stints with the Chicago White Sox and Tampa Bay Rays. His journey this year includes a spring training invitation from the Chicago Cubs before his subsequent release.
Richard Lovelady also joins the Mets roster after a productive period in Triple-A with the Minnesota Twins’ affiliate, St. Paul. With a 1.31 ERA over 19 games, Lovelady is expected to bring depth and skill to the Mets’ bullpen. Known for his low-slot delivery and pitch variety, he has had a varied career with appearances for several MLB teams.
Right-hander Frankie Montas is set to make his debut with the Mets shortly, after recovering from a right lat strain that kept him out since spring training. The team anticipates Montas, a significant offseason signing, will add strength to their rotation and offer consistent performances.
Finally, outfielder Jose Siri has been transferred to the 60-day injured list due to a left tibia fracture, marking another change in the roster as the Mets work to stabilize their lineup during this challenging period.