The Mets’ “Accumulation Mode” took a small hit today and they lost three unprotected prospects in the Rule 5 Draft today while selecting none for themselves.
The Houston Astros had the first overall pick and they used it to take the Mets right-hander Rhiner Cruz – a hard-throwing reliever whose fastball has been clocked in the triple digits in the Dominican this winter.
Cruz posted a 3.89 ERA over two levels last season, striking out 69 batters and walking 45 in 71 2/3 innings.
Sandy Alderson called the loss unfortunate and said, “I was in the Dominican Republic late in November, and there was a certain amount of buzz about Cruz. n some ways, it’s an indication of at least the depth of the talent we have. From that standpoint, it was unfortunate, but anticipated.”
The Mets also lost catcher Hector Alvarez to the Blue Jays and right-hander Luis Rojas to the Giants in the Minor League portion of the Draft.
In 2010, the Mets selected second baseman Brad Emaus and reliever Pedro Beato. Emaus didn’t make it into May before being returned, and Beato stayed the course for the entire season and can now be sent to the minors if the Mets choose to opt him.
