The New York Mets have dealt David Robertson to the Miami Marlins and starter Max Scherzer to the Texas Rangers in a move that fans interpreted as a sign the club is becoming a seller in the ongoing trade period.
Becoming a seller means the team has given up on its playoff appearances.
General Manager Billy Eppler clarifies that the latest activities were strategic decisions to enhance the farm systems.
Read more: Lucas Giolito Shares Emotional Reaction After White Sox Trade Him to Angels
"I do want to be clear that it's not a rebuild," he told reporters.
"It's not a fire sale. It's not a liquidation. This is just a repurposing of Steve's investment in the club."
Moving Scherzer could be a win for the Mets as they were able to unload his record-setting contract. The star pitcher is set to earn $16 million this year and $43.3 million in 2024.
Mets received Luisangel Acuña, younger brother of Atlanta Braves star Ronald Acuña Jr., who is an intriguing Top 50 prospect.
Optimism with young Acuña
The club generally disappointed this season after coming into the new season with the highest payroll. They are currently 18 games behind the first place with a 50-55 record and 6.5 games behind a wild card spot.
Eppler sees Acuña as a good investment to put behind a disappointing season.
"Ultra athleticism," Eppler said of the 21-year-old Venezuelan.
"The arm strength, the hit ability. He's working on lifting the ball a little bit more and just being able to get the ball airborne a touch more. Strong plate discipline, strong contact skills. Just really excited to get a prospect of his caliber into our system."
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