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Mets Announce Trade on Thursday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin Groe | Last updated Jan 15, 2026 4:27 PM ET

The New York Mets have had an eventful offseason, with many familiar faces set to embark on new chapters with different organizations. Yet president of baseball operations David Stearns remains committed to constructing the roster according to his vision, as the Mets aim to rebound in 2026 following last year’s second‑half collapse.

New York continues to be linked to outfielder Kyle Tucker, widely regarded as the top position player available, along with left‑hander Framber Valdez, considered the premier arm on the free agent market.

As the 2026 season approaches, the Mets’ pursuit of talent underscores their determination to return to contention. At the same time, the front office has quietly made a series of smaller moves designed to strengthen depth and improve all areas of the organization.

New York Mets President of Baseball Operations David StearnsBrad Penner-Imagn Images

On Thursday, the Mets accomplished one of those smaller but strategic moves, completing a trade with the Cleveland Guardians.

New York sent minor league left-handed pitcher Franklin Gomez to Cleveland in exchange for international bonus pool money, a transaction designed to give the organization greater flexibility on the international market.

That additional pool space proved critical, as the Mets immediately put it to use by signing Dominican shortstop Wandy Asigen, MLB Pipeline’s No. 2 prospect in the 2026 international class.

We have made the following trade. pic.twitter.com/OgbtG1hnkQ
— New York Mets (@Mets) January 15, 2026

Asigen is widely viewed as one of the most complete players available, with evaluators praising his advanced bat speed, ability to generate power and quickness on the basepaths.

His defensive instincts and athleticism suggest he has the tools to remain at shortstop long‑term as potentially Francisco Lindor’s successor, while his offensive upside makes him a potential franchise centerpiece.

The Mets allocated $3.9 million of their pool money to secure Asigen, underscoring how important the Guardians trade was in finalizing the deal.

New York has continued to land elite international prospects, signaling a clear commitment to building depth across all levels of the system.

While the headline moves of the offseason have focused on potential big‑league acquisitions, these international signings highlight how the Mets are working to improve every corner of the organization, ensuring both immediate and long‑term success.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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