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 Mets Trade For All Star Outfielder
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QUEENS, N.Y. — The New York Mets bolstered their outfield just before the MLB trade deadline, acquiring center fielder Cedric Mullins from the Baltimore Orioles in a blockbuster trade. In exchange, the Mets sent three right-handed pitching prospects—Raimon Gomez, Anthony Nunez, and Chandler Marsh—to Baltimore.

Mullins, a 2021 All-Star and Silver Slugger Award winner, brings a dynamic mix of power, speed, and defensive prowess to the Mets. The 30-year-old left-handed hitter has posted a .229 batting average with 15 home runs and 14 stolen bases this season. His recent hot streak, including a .321 average with six doubles and two homers over his last 16 games, signals a return to form that could energize New York’s lineup.

The Mets, leading the National League East, aim to solidify their postseason push with Mullins anchoring center field. His ability to pull the ball in the air and his 80% career stolen base success rate make him a versatile threat. Defensively, Mullins remains a reliable presence, though advanced metrics suggest a slight dip this season. He slots into a lineup craving outfield stability, especially with Jose Siri sidelined and Tyrone Taylor and Jeff McNeil struggling to fill the center field void.

Baltimore, mired in last place in the American League East, shifted into sell mode as the deadline loomed. The Orioles, who entered the season with playoff aspirations, pivoted to restock their farm system after a disappointing 2025 campaign. Mullins, a free agent at season’s end, became a prime trade chip, fetching a trio of promising arms.

Gomez, a hard-throwing reliever, boasts a fastball clocked as high as 104 mph. Nunez, a starter with a strong groundball rate, offers long-term potential for Baltimore’s rotation. Marsh, another starter, brings a polished skill set and could climb the Orioles’ prospect ranks quickly. The trio provides Baltimore with pitching depth, addressing a critical need as the team eyes a 2026 rebound.

The trade marks the end of Mullins’ tenure with the Orioles, where he played 784 games and hit .250 with over 100 career home runs. His final series with Baltimore showcased his offensive spark, as he racked up six hits, including four doubles, in three games against Toronto. Mets fans will see Mullins debut this weekend when New York hosts the San Francisco Giants, with a series against the Cleveland Guardians to follow.

For the Mets, the move signals aggressive intent to capitalize on their division lead. Mullins’ addition not only upgrades their outfield but also adds a veteran presence for a potential deep playoff run. Meanwhile, the Orioles gain flexibility to rebuild around their young core, including stars like Gunnar Henderson and Adley Rutschman, while integrating their new prospects.

This article first appeared on EasySportz and was syndicated with permission.

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