Athletics Claim Mets Pitcher Off Waivers

Just one of the six players that New York Mets placed on waivers last week was claimed, the Mets announced on Tuesday.

The Oakland Athletics claimed left-handed pitcher Anthony Kay off waivers.

Kay pitched in three games for the Mets in 2023, throwing 3.1 innings and finishing with a 5.40 ERA. He also made 13 appearances for the Chicago Cubs last season.

The other five players placed on waivers were right-handed pitcher Vinny Nittoli, catcher Michael Pérez, outfielder Rafael Ortega, infielder Jonathan Araúz and infielder Danny Mendick.

None were claimed and they opted for free agency.

The Mets reportedly made the moves to clear space off their 40-man roster as they prepare to make offseason moves via trades, free agency and the Rule 5 Draft.

Per MLB.com, the Mets have 39 players on their 40-man roster, with five of them still on the 60-day injured list.

New president of baseball operations David Stearns has not hired a manager yet, but all signs points toward him trying to lure Milwaukee manager Craig Counsell to the Big Apple. Stearns was formerly the general manager and president of baseball operations for the Brewers. Counsell has led the Brewers to five playoff appearances.

Nittoli made three appearances for the Mets and wasn’t involved in a decision. He had a 2.45 ERA, as he struck out five and walked three.

Pérez appeared in just three games for the Mets in 2023, managing four hits in eight plate appearances with a double.

Ortega played in 47 games for the Mets last season, as he batted .219. He had three doubles, one home run and eight RBI.

Araúz played in 27 games for the Mets and finished with a .136 batting average. He did hit three home runs and drove in nine in just 59 at-bats.

Mendick played in 35 games and had 65 at-bats for the Mets, as he finished with a .242 batting average. He had three doubles, a home run and four RBI for the season.