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On Friday, the Yankees announced that they claimed infielder Diego Castillo off waivers from the Mets. In a corresponding move, the Yankees designated Jeter Downs for assignment. Castillo was a short-lived member of the Mets this offseason, as he was claimed by New York on January 5 before being designated for assignment one week later to make room for Sean Manaea on the 40-man roster. Castillo was always nothing more than a depth pickup by David Stearns, and he will now head across town to join his third team this offseason.
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Latest Mets News
Artist Eladio Carrión released a music video for his song ‘RKO’ on Friday. Some shots from the video took place at Citi Field and featured Mets catcher Francisco Álvarez.
The Mets celebrated the graduation of members of their Dominican Academy last week. Among those in attendance were president of baseball operations David Stearns, manager Carlos Mendoza, and Francisco Álvarez.
Latest MLB News
The Houston Astros signed closer Josh Hader to a five-year, $95 million contract. With no deferrals, it is the largest present-day value contract for a relief pitcher in MLB history, beating out the contract Edwin Díaz signed last offseason due to deferrals in his contract. Hader joins a fantastic backend of the bullpen in Houston, uniting with impressive relievers Ryan Pressly and Bryan Abreu.
Another reliever went off the board on Friday, with Robert Stephenson joining the Los Angeles Angels on a three-year deal. It was previously reported by Jon Morosi of MLB Network that the Mets were interested in Stephenson.
New details of the Wander Franco case were obtained by ESPN on Friday, including previously unknown interactions and messages between Franco and a 14-year-old girl who he is alleged to have had a relationship with.
The Marlins finalized and announced their coaching staff under manager Skip Schumaker on Friday.
The Cardinals signed infielder Matt Carpenter to a one-year deal. The 38-year-old spent the first 11 seasons of his career in St. Louis, where he was a three-time All-Star.
Sam Kennedy, president and CEO of the Red Sox, said on Friday that payroll for the team will “probably be lower” next year than last year. Kennedy emphasized the team’s desire to build the team around a young core of players.
In a move that affects sports journalism beyond just the baseball world, all Sports Illustrated staffers were notified on Friday that they were being let go, threatening the future of the legendary brand.
Latest on MMO
Ricky Keeler writes about David Wright‘s current trajectory to remain on the Hall of Fame ballot.
Jack Markowski evaluates the Mets’ remaining options on the market for the DH role.
Brian Wright makes the case for Billy Wagner to make the Hall of Fame.
In an MMO Fan Shot, Greg Jones ponders whether young Mets players can succeed in the high-pressure environment of Queens.
On This Date in Mets History
1984: The White Sox claimed Tom Seaver from the Mets in a free-agent compensation draft, ending Seaver’s second stint with New York after spending just the 1983 season with the team. General manager Frank Cashen left Seaver unprotected from the draft, incorrectly assuming no one would take the 39-year-old, but the White Sox made Cashen regret his decision by grabbing the Mets legend.
Birthdays: Ali Sánchez (27), Travis Taijeron (35)
