Mets trade OF Billy McKinney to Dodgers ahead of potential 'big splash'

The first-place New York Mets are reportedly interested in making a "big splash" that could involve acquiring a starting pitcher and slugger before the July 30 trade deadline. Following Wednesday's win at the Cincinnati Reds that propelled the Mets to 50-43 on the season, they generated a small ripple. 

Per the MLB website, the Mets have traded outfielder Billy McKinney to the Los Angeles Dodgers for minor league outfielder Carlos Rincon. According to The Associated Press (h/t ESPN), the Mets also received cash in the trade and then claimed right-handed pitcher Roel Ramirez off waivers from the St. Louis Cardinals.

The AP added Rincon is heading to Double-A Binghamton, while Ramirez will report to Triple-A Syracuse. 

New York originally landed McKinney via a trade with the Milwaukee Brewers on May 25 but designated him for assignment July 16. Across 79 total games with those two organizations this year, McKinney batted .213 with eight home runs and 20 RBI. 

Mets general manager Zack Scott explained during a Tuesday appearance on the "Big Time Baseball" podcast he wants to trade for a starter at some point before the deadline. The Amazins have been linked with Jose Berrios of the Minnesota Twins and Tyler Anderson of the Pittsburgh Pirates, among others, in rumors and reports.