2026 Transactions: Mets to Promote Scott, Astros Select Johnson

Amidst problems with the Mets’ rotation, the team has tried to get creative of late. David Peterson came in out of the bullpen on the 19th, and the plan this week is to push back Kodai Senga. That will open the door for Christian Scott to return to Queens.

Scott back to Majors

Mets manager Carlos Mendoza indicated to the media on the 21st that Christian Scott will be promoted to the Majors and start on April 23.

Scott last pitched in the Majors in July 2024. Now 26 years of age, Scott was a roaring prospect who diced up Minor League hitters in 2023 and 2024 before being promoted to the Mets. However, Scott only made nine starts in 2024 with the Mets before he went down with a UCL strain that ultimately required reconstructive elbow surgery.

Through three starts, Scott posted a 5.27 ERA and 17 strikeouts over 13.2 IP. That ERA was skewed thanks to the Tigers’ Triple-A affiliate tagging him for six runs in his first 2026 start.

Fastball was as high as 97 MPH in Syracuse, along with a 29.9% Whiff% on it. Scott had the fourth-highest overall Chase% (38.7%) in the Triple-A level as of April 21. The only three pitchers with a higher rate (min. 100 pitches out of the strike zone) were Bryan Sammons, Gabriel Hughes, and Sawyer Gipson-Long.

Astros select Johnson

The Astros, dealing with more injuries, selected Daniel Johnson from Triple-A Sugar Land.

Johnson, now 30 years of age, only hit .100 between Jacksonville and Sugar Land but can play well out in the outfield.

Options and recalls

Alex Hoppe (Mariners), Dylan Dodd (Braves), Alan Rangel (Phillies), and Tyler Samaniego (Red Sox) were recalled.

Seth Johnson (Phillies) and Ryan Ward (Dodgers) were optioned to Triple-A.

Other moves

Freddie Freeman returned from the paternity list.

Twins reliever Kody Funderburk went on the paternity list.

Casey Legumina (Mariners), Luis Peralta (Rockies), Sam Huff (Orioles), and Christian Roa (Astros) were designated for assignment.

The Rockies claimed Blas Castano off waivers from the Mariners. He was optioned to Triple-A after the move.