Good morning, Mets fans

The New York Mets are set to release their long-awaited City Connect uniform later today. The Mets team store will open on Friday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., with exclusive early access for season ticket members starting at 10 a.m. The uniforms will see their first on-field action on Saturday, April 27th, against the St. Louis Cardinals.

Now, onto the morning briefing!

Latest MLB News

Sam Blum of The Athletic writes that the Angels announced pitcher Robert Stephenson will miss the season with an elbow injury.

Baseball America released their 10 prospects outside the Top 100 showing promise early on, spanning potential Top 100 contenders, sleeper picks, and players with encouraging starts this season. Mets prospect Jesus Baez is mentioned on this list.

Jason Lloyd and Zack Meisel of The Athletic report that Cleveland Guardians pitcher Triston McKenzie is pitching with a torn ligament in his right elbow. McKenzie opted against surgery last year, deciding to go with rehab instead.

According to a report from Britt Ghiroli of The Athletic, Rimas Sports, fronted by Bad Bunny, plans to challenge the MLBPA’s disciplinary action. Additionally, they intend to enlist reigning MVP Ronald Acuña Jr. to their ranks.

The New York Yankees announced that they have claimed outfielder Taylor Trammell off waivers from the Los Angeles Dodgers. In a corresponding move to clear space on the 40-man roster, infielder Kevin Smith has been designated for assignment.

According to Christopher Smith of MassLive, Red Sox infielder Rafael Devers‘ MRI revealed a bone bruise. The team does not anticipate a stint on the injured list for him.

The Arizona Diamondbacks have released a statement expressing disappointment about the relocation of the sports operations of the Arizona Coyotes to Utah. Diamondbacks management affirms that their city can support hockey and baseball, contrary to other reports noting otherwise.

As reported by Jon Heyman of the New York Post, Pittsburgh Pirates reliever Aroldis Chapman has been handed a two-game suspension and fined following his actions at Citi Field on Monday night. Chapman has the option to appeal the decision.

The Boston Red Sox acquired pitcher Vladimir Gutierrez from the Milwaukee Brewers in exchange for cash, and he has been optioned to Triple-A Worcester. To accommodate Gutierrez on the 40-man roster, transferred injured shortstop Trevor Story from the 10-day IL to the 60-day IL and announced the optioning of lefty Joe Jacques to Worcester.

Latest on MMO

On the latest episode of MMO Weekly, Sal is joined by recent internet sensation and Mets fan, Max Wiener, also known as the Rally Pimp! Check out the episode here on YouTube, and it is also available on your preferred audio streaming platform!

Sam Neumann writes about Mets pitcher Luis Severino becoming a reliable arm for the starting rotation.

Andrew Steele Davis writes about the Mets doing the right things during their sweep of the Pittsburgh Pirates.

On This Date In Mets History

1964: The Mets win their first game at Shea Stadium. On Sunday, April 19th, Al Jackson took the mound for the Mets and went the distance, pitching a shutout against Pittsburgh. Despite allowing six hits, the crafty lefty struck out six batters. His stellar performance helped New York salvage the final game of the three-game series. The Mets’ defense was crucial in supporting Jackson, turning double plays in the third and seventh innings to escape potential jams. Notably, the team’s infielders also provided all the offense for the day. Ron Hunt, playing second base, and Rod Kanehl, at third base, each drove in two runs, while Dick Smith and Al Moran, at first base and shortstop respectively, added one RBI each as the Mets would win 6-0.

2005: The Mets set a club record with seven home runs in a game in their 16-4 win over the Phillies. José Reyes (2), Victor Díaz (2), David Wright (grand slam), Mike Piazza and Doug Mientkiewicz homered.

Birthdays: Tyler Jay (30), Brent Mayne (56), Frank Viola (64)