The Mets are calling up utilityman Christopher Morel from Triple-A Syracuse. The 27-year-old is hitting a rollicking .321/.382/.716 with 12 homers in 139 plate appearances for Syracuse.
Morel’s major league career got off to a promising start in 2022, when he clubbed 16 homers in 425 plate appearances for the Cubs. He took a big step forward in 2023, batting .247/.313/.508 with 26 homers in 429 plate appearances, and his 50% hard-hit and 16% barrel rate ranked in the majors’ 92nd and 95th percentiles, respectively. However, Morel’s numbers took a dip in 2024, and the Cubs traded him to the Rays in exchange for Isaac Paredes. Morel struggled mightily in Tampa Bay, posting just a .632 OPS with a negative 1.1 bWAR in 495 plate appearances. Morel was designated for assignment after the 2025 season and eventually non-tendered.
Morel signed with the Marlins before the 2026 season but was placed on the injured list with an oblique injury before Opening Day. When he returned, he went just 11-for-68 with three extra-base hits before getting released on June 26. The Mets signed him to a minor league deal five days later. While his numbers look ugly, Morel still boasts impressive bat speed at an average of 75.6 mph and has the ability to play multiple positions. In the majors, he has played every position except pitcher and catcher. This season in Triple-A, he has played first, second and third base, as well as both corner outfield positions.
