Mets Trade Marlon Byrd And John Buck To Pirates For Minor Leaguer
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- The Mets received some devastating news about ace Matt Harvey on Monday.
The 2013 National League All-Star Game starter has a partially torn ligament in his right elbow. He could miss the rest of this season, and if he undergoes Tommy John surgery, he could miss all of 2014 as well.
Though "The Dark Knight of Gotham" is virtually irreplaceable, New York made a move on Tuesday that it hopes will be beneficial for the future.
The Mets traded right fielder Marlon Byrd, catcher John Buck and cash to the Pirates for minor league middle infielder Dilson Herrera and a player to be named later.
Herrera, 19, played this season with the West Virginia Power of the Class A South Atlantic League. In 109 games he batted .265 with 11 home runs, 27 doubles and 56 RBIs. He also stole 11 bases and posted a .330 on-base percentage.
The power hitter was having a very productive season for New York following two consecutive brutal campaigns. He signed a minor-league deal with the Amazin's on February 1 and is currently earning just $700,000, which made him a very attractive option.
The Comeback Player of the Year Award candidate is batting .285 with 21 homers and 71 RBIs in 117 games played. He's roped 26 doubles, five triples and has posted a .330 on-base percentage. He impressed in the field for the Mets, displaying a powerful arm and showing great range for a bigger man.
It was rumored that the big-league veteran would be dealt at the trade deadline, but the Mets were reportedly never close to sending him to another club.
Buck was no longer the starting catcher in Queens, as rookie Travis d'Arnaud has assumed that duty,
Buck batted .215 with 15 home runs and 60 RBIs in 101 games for New York.
The Mets later announced they haved called up outfielder Matt den Dekker, catcher Anthony Recker and left-handed pitcher Robert Carson from Triple-A Las Vegas.
In an ironic twist, the Mets are giving away Marlon Byrd-themed "Let It Fly" shirts at Citi Field tonight.
Can you say collector's item?
You May Also Be Interested In These Stories
