Mets Bolster Bullpen with Acquisition of Yohan Ramirez
In a strategic move to strengthen their bullpen, the New York Mets have acquired right-handed pitcher Yohan Ramirez from the Chicago White Sox. The transaction cost the Mets $100,000, indicating their commitment to shoring up their relief pitching options after a season that saw closer Edwin Diaz sidelined due to injury.
With Diaz out for the entire season, the Mets have been actively seeking ways to enhance their bullpen's reliability and depth. In addition to Ramirez, the team has brought in new arms including Austin Adams, Michael Tonkin, and Jorge Lopez to create a more formidable bullpen lineup as they head into the upcoming season.
The departure of David Robertson in a trade further underscores the Mets' need for fresh talent like Ramirez, who is no longer eligible for minor league play. This means he will be a permanent fixture on the Mets' 40-man roster, ready to step onto the mound when called upon.
Yohan Ramirez: Career Overview
Ramirez's journey to the Mets began with his major league debut with the Seattle Mariners in 2020. Since then, he has worn the uniforms of the Cleveland Guardians and Pittsburgh Pirates, achieving a respectable 3.67 ERA across 26 games with the latter. His brief tenure with the White Sox resulted in a 9.00 ERA over five games after being claimed off waivers in September.
Throughout his career, spanning 102 games, Ramirez has maintained a cumulative ERA of 3.99. Notably, he has undergone a pitching style transformation, evolving from a fastball-slider combination to relying more heavily on sinkers and sweepers. This adaptation could serve him well as he faces the batters of the National League East.
Potential Pursuit of Josh Hader
The Mets may not be done with their bullpen overhaul, as rumors suggest they are considering a pursuit of Josh Hader. The formidable reliever is reportedly seeking a contract that surpasses Edwin Diaz's $102 million deal, which would be a significant financial commitment for the Mets. Should they secure Hader, it would signal an aggressive approach to constructing one of the most dominant bullpens in the league.
White Sox Offseason Overhaul
Meanwhile, the White Sox have been busy reshaping their organization and roster. The offseason saw the departure of Kenny Williams and Rick Hahn, paving the way for Chris Getz to step in as the new general manager. One of Getz's first moves was to trade Aaron Bummer to the Atlanta Braves, a deal that brought back a package including Michael Soroka, Jared Shuster, Nicky Lopez, Braden Shewmake, and Riley Gowens—a substantial return that injects youth and potential into the White Sox system.
Erick Fedde's signing of a two-year contract with the White Sox marks his eager return to the Major Leagues. This acquisition adds another layer to the team's pitching staff, offering experience and a fresh start for Fedde.
Conclusion
As the offseason progresses, both the Mets and White Sox are making clear statements about their intentions for the coming season. For the Mets, the focus is on creating a robust bullpen capable of contending at the highest level, particularly in the absence of their star closer. On the other side, the White Sox are undergoing a period of transition, with new leadership and players setting the stage for what they hope will be a successful future.
Only time will tell how these moves will pan out on the diamond, but one thing is certain: both teams are positioning themselves with the intent to make an impact when the first pitch of the season is thrown.