With MLB rosters expanding to 28 players in September, the Mets called up Luisangel Acuña and Justin Hagenman. Teams are allowed one extra pitcher and one extra position player for the rest of the regular season.
Acuña has had a rough go offensively in the majors, slashing .239/.295/.283 with a 67 wRC+ over 175 plate appearances, though he’s swiped 12 bases despite his low on-base numbers.
At Triple-A Syracuse, he’s been a bit better, hitting .303/.347/.385 with a 91 wRC+ in 122 plate appearances. Given his strong defense and speed, the Mets are likely to use him primarily as a late-game substitute and pinch runner.
Hagenman has already logged time with the big-league club this season, posting a 3.26 ERA and 3.54 FIP across 19.1 innings. His addition restores the Mets’ bullpen to eight arms, after they briefly carried just seven while adjusting to a six-man rotation with Jonah Tong.
It’s unclear whether either player will stick through September. Hagenman—or possibly Brandon Waddell—could be sent down if the Mets decide Brandon Sproat is ready for his MLB debut.
Acuña seems somewhat safer, but his roster spot could also be in jeopardy if Jesse Winker, Jose Siri, and Francisco Alvarez return from the injured list this month.
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