Good morning, Mets fans!
Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports that Mets pitcher Chris Bassitt expressed frustration with the system that sidelined the pitcher for a week. Regarding his COVID diagnosis, Bassitt stated that he was never sick nor did he feel any symptoms.
Chris Bassitt, who will come off the COVID IL to start tomorrow, expressed frustration at a system that sidelined him despite the fact that "I was never sick. Never had a symptom."
He says he reported his positive test out of a feeling of obligation, but might not in the future.
— Anthony DiComo (@AnthonyDiComo) July 7, 2022
The Mets returned home from a road trip to play the Miami Marlins at home, with Trevor Williams leading the charge. Williams would pitch seven strong innings and would be carried by huge performances by J.D. Davis and James McCann. For more on this big win, check out our recap of last night’s game.
Now onto the morning briefing!
Latest Mets News
Mets outfielder Brandon Nimmo will host a sandlot game at Hinton Park in Flushing today at 12:30pm. The goal of this game is to inspire kids to play baseball and exemplify sportsmanship. Nimmo will also donate Bruce Bolt batting gloves to the kids in attendance.
Pat Ragazzo of Sports Illustrated reports that the Mets have scouted Chicago Cubs closer David Robertson. For more on Robertson and this report, check out our piece on the story.
Latest MLB News
The World Baseball Classic tournament will resume in 2023. Major League Baseball announced the return of the tournament and released a schedule with an expansion of 20 teams. The final will take place in Miami and other host venues will take place in the countries of Taiwan, Japan and another round taking place in Phoenix, Arizona.
The 2023 World Baseball Classic schedule has been announced. The finals will be held in Miami and it's been expanded to 20 teams. pic.twitter.com/n4EdbshzmS
— JJ Cooper (@jjcoop36) July 7, 2022
The writing staff at The Athletic have released their 2022 MLB Beat Writer Mock Draft. The son of former Braves outfielder Andruw Jones, Druw Jones, tops off the list at number one for the Baltimore Orioles.
Rehabbing Red Sox pitcher Chris Sale released a statement apologizing for his actions after a rehab start that did not go well. In a video circulated online, Sale was seen trashing the walls and area around him in the hallway near the dugout.
Chris Sale: “I acted like an idiot last night and I’ve acted like an idiot before.
“It’s who I am. It’s what makes me a big leaguer. It’s what makes me good at my job. It might not be the best for the public eye but what is? Who’s perfect. Name him. I’d like to shake his hand.
— Chris Cotillo (@ChrisCotillo) July 7, 2022
Jeeho Yoo of Yonhap News Agency reports that former Mets outfielder Juan Lagares has signed a deal to play in the KBO. Lagares will sign with the SSG Landers for a salary of $425,000. Lagares, seen here, signing his contract, will replace Kevin Cron on their roster.
Shi Davidi of Sportsnet tweets that the Toronto Blue Jays have placed pitcher Yusei Kikuchi on the injured list with a neck strain.
Latest on MMO
Steve Sica profiles the latest on minor leaguers Mark Vientos, Brett Baty and others in his Mets Minors Recap.
On This Date in Mets History
1997: Bobby J. Jones represents the Mets in the 1997 All Star Game in Cleveland, Ohio. Going 12-5 in the first half of the season, Jones came on to face the top of the American League order in the eighth inning. After allowing a leadoff single to Brady Anderson, he retired the next three batters in order, including striking out sluggers Ken Griffey, Jr. and Mark McGwire. Jones’ battery mate Todd Hundley was selected to the team but did not play.
Birthdays: Gary Kroll (81), Ken Sanders (81)
Let’s go Mets!