The New York Mets made a bold move to fix their infield depth. While Eric Wagaman returned to Triple-A, Gabriel Arias was added to the big league roster. This decision comes after a rough stretch for the team’s bench options. Amazin Avenue reports that Cleveland released Arias on waivers for the club to claim him on Friday. The 26-year-old brings experience at all four infield spots. That versatility is exactly what a championship team needs when injuries hit.
A Versatile Option for Queens
Gabriel Arias is not just a name on a piece of paper. He has played parts of five seasons in the major leagues. Per Amazin Avenue, he hit .244 with five home runs in 42 games before being designated for assignment. His on-base skills were low, but his defense is solid. The Mets need someone who can play shortstop and second base without a drop in quality. Arias wears number 25, a spot vacated by Brooks Raley. This number change signals a fresh start for the new arrival. The front office knows that one bad defensive play can cost a game in this league. They are betting on Arias to be that safety net.
Wagaman’s Struggles Cost Him a Spot
Eric Wagaman did not have the numbers to stay in New York. He was recalled to replace Juan Soto when the star went on the IL back on July 26. Only two big league games have featured him since that time. Amazin Avenue reported he went 1-for-3 in a loss to the Braves and picked up a hit in a win over the Guardians. His stats for the season show a .190 batting average and a 74 wRC+. That is not good enough for a team with World Series hopes. The club sent him down to Syracuse to get more at-bats. It was a tough call, but the numbers do not lie. A team cannot carry a player who struggles to get on base. (more on that in Gabriel Arias Swaps Guardians for Mets on Surprising Waiver Move)
This roster shuffle tells us the Mets are serious about fixing their bench. They will not settle for weak defense or poor hitting. Gabriel Arias offers a chance to stabilize the infield. Eric Wagaman needs to prove he can handle the pressure in Triple-A. The Mets are building a roster that can handle a long season. Can Arias step up and deliver when it matters most?
