Danny Mendick. Photo by Richard Nelson
The New York Mets are calling up utility infielder Danny Mendick to replace Eduardo Escobar on the active roster per Mike Puma of the NY Post. Escobar was involved in a deal yesterday that saw him moved the Los Angeles Angels for two top-25 prospects. As a result, a roster spot was opened. New York is opting to use that roster spot on the former Chicago White Sox infielder.
The 29-year-old has had a decent season with Triple-A Syracuse. He is slashing .264/.357/.401 which is good for an OPS of .757. Mendick has hit eight home runs and driven in 35 runs across 277 at-bats.
The right-handed hitter is swinging a hot bat right now, as he is coming off a 2-for-4 effort with a home run and four RBIs on Friday. Mendick owns a six-game hitting streak, 10-for-24 over that stretch. He owns a .920 OPS in the month of June.
Mendick was signed in the offseason to a one-year deal worth $1 million. He has 151 major-league games under his belt with a career slash line of .251/.309/.366. Mendick has the capabilities to play second base, shortstop, and third base. This versatility is likely why he was given the nod.
Other candidates for call-up were two of the Mets’ top prospects, Ronny Mauricio or Mark Vientos. However, until full-time at-bats are available, it’s likely each will remain in the minors. Not to mention, Mauricio has continued to struggle mightily in the field and now finds himself mired in a 0-for-13 slump with a .203/.267/.391 slash line in June for Triple-A Syracuse.
