Cowtipper

The Mets have acquired 6' 8" reliever Bryan Hudson from the White Sox. He owns a 2.83 ERA and 1.035 career WHIP in 65 games, mostly because of his excellent 2024 (1.73 ERA in 43 G). Had a 4.80 mark in 16 games last year. https://www.mlb.com/news/bryan-hudson-mets-white-sox-trade

His name was the best part about having him around.

Gary Blaylock died. https://www.landessfuneralhome.com/obituary/gary-blaylock-sr Who was Gary Blaylock? Gary Nelson Blaylock (1931–2026) was an American professional baseball pitcher whose career spanned playing, coaching, scouting, and managing roles across more than three decades in organized baseball. A right-handed pitcher from Clarkton, Missouri, Blaylock spent nine seasons in the St. Louis Cardinals’ farm system before reaching Major League Baseball in 1959, appearing with both the Cardinals and the New York Yankees. In 41 MLB games, he compiled a 4–6 record with a 4.80 ERA, while also gaining experience in the Venezuelan Professional Baseball League. After his brief major league career, Blaylock transitioned into coaching and player development, becoming a long-time minor league manager and pitching instructor within the Yankees and later the Kansas City Royals organizations. He managed multiple minor league teams, winning league championships and earning a reputation as a respected teacher of pitchers. His career culminated at the major league level when he served as pitching coach for the Kansas City Royals from 1984 to 1987, including their 1985 World Series championship season. Blaylock remained involved in baseball as a scout and instructor well into later life and was inducted into the Dunklin County Hall of Honor in 2010. He died in his hometown of Clarkton, Missouri, in 2026 at the age of 94, remembered primarily for his long-standing contributions to player development rather than his brief time in the major leagues.

"2 spots open with this as the competition: Carson Benge Vidal Brujan Ronny Mauricio MJ Melendez Nick Morabito Jared Young" See, we pretty much know we're not going to get much from Brujan, Melendez or Young. Mauricio is still a toss up, but he's leaning toward an underwhelming career, too. We have no idea how Benge or Morabito might do, but they'd likely not do any worse than the above, and they might surprise us by doing better than we could imagine. They're top prospects, after all. So I'd like to find a way to get them on the team to start the year somehow. But since they probably need more infield depth, it might make more sense to choose one and let the other still-top-prospect (ish) Mauricio try to prove himself again, instead of using as Quadruple-A guy like Brujan.

When did they get Nate Lavender back? Alzolay, Edwards, Kimbrel, Herget & Waddell are all solid names and show the Mets bullpen might actually be kind of deep this year. There's actually some decent names among the NRIs of all people, so this team might be better than we think.

In 2021, he hit 41 home runs between Double-A and Triple-A.

In 2019, he hit .163 with 165 Ks in 363 ABs. At High-A.

Victor Conte died. https://www.mercurynews.com/2025/11/03/balco-architect-victor-conte-loses-battle-with-cancer-at-age-of-75/ Who was Victor Conte? Victor Conte Jr. (1950–2025) was an American musician turned controversial sports entrepreneur best known as the founder of the Bay Area Laboratory Co-operative (BALCO), the center of one of the largest performance-enhancing drug scandals in modern sports. Born in Fresno, California, Conte initially pursued a career in music, playing bass guitar in funk and R&B circles during the 1970s. He performed with Tower of Power from 1977 to 1979 and collaborated with prominent musicians such as Herbie Hancock, earning the stage nickname “Walkin’ Fish.” In 1984, Conte shifted paths and founded BALCO, a sports nutrition laboratory that later became infamous for supplying elite athletes with banned substances, including the designer steroid tetrahydrogestrinone (“The Clear”). The BALCO scandal implicated high-profile figures across professional sports and track and field, including Marion Jones and Barry Bonds, and exposed systemic doping at the highest levels of competition. Conte publicly admitted his role in orchestrating doping programs and criticized what he described as widespread corruption in international sports. In 2005, Conte pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute steroids and money laundering, serving four months in federal prison followed by house arrest. Despite the scandal, he remained a visible and polarizing figure, appearing frequently in media discussions about doping and sports ethics. He later founded Scientific Nutrition for Advanced Conditioning (SNAC), a company providing legal supplements and training services to professional athletes, particularly in boxing. Conte’s life was marked by stark contrasts—creative success as a respected musician, notoriety as the architect of a major sports scandal, and a later attempt at professional reinvention. He died from pancreatic cancer in November 2025 at the age of 75, leaving behind a legacy that continues to shape conversations about performance enhancement, accountability, and integrity in sports. Also... Jim Farris Baba (1956–2025) was a Canadian baseball executive, manager, and scout who played a central role in the development of Team Canada, managing multiple Baseball World Cup teams and serving for decades in senior national and international leadership positions. A member of the Order of Canada, he was posthumously elected to the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame in 2026 in recognition of his lasting impact on baseball in Canada and worldwide. Masaharu Obata (1934–2025) was a Japanese right-handed pitcher who spent seven seasons with the Nankai Hawks, posting a 35–14 record and a 3.12 ERA while playing key roles in multiple Nippon Series during the 1950s. He was at his best in 1955 and 1956, emerging as one of the Hawks’ top starters before injuries and decline led to his retirement in 1958. Yutaka Ohashi (1946–2025) was a Japanese shortstop best known for his elite defense, winning seven consecutive Diamond Glove Awards despite modest offensive production over a 14-year Nippon Pro Baseball career. A key contributor to the Hankyu Braves’ dynasty of the 1970s, he later enjoyed a long post-playing career as a coach and manager in Japan, Taiwan, and South Korea. Sue Parsons (1934–2025) was a versatile player for the Rockford Peaches in the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League, appearing as a pitcher, infielder, and outfielder in 1953 and 1954. After her baseball career, she excelled in tennis, achieving national rankings in the over-40 age category. Wikelman Ramírez (2000–2025) was a Venezuelan right-handed pitcher who spent parts of several seasons in the Tampa Bay Rays’ minor-league system and later gained international notice by leading the 2021 U-23 Baseball World Cup in saves as Venezuela went undefeated. His career was cut short when he was murdered at age 25 in his hometown of Valencia, Venezuela. Hiroshi Sato (1962–2025) was a Japanese infielder who spent his professional career in the Yomiuri Giants organization, appearing briefly in Nippon Professional Baseball between 1988 and 1992 primarily as a reserve second baseman. After retiring in 1994, he later returned to the game as a high school coach, leading Tohoku High School from 2022 until his death in 2025. Larry Smith (1941–2025) was a longtime baseball coach and minor league manager, leading teams like the Welland Pirates and serving at colleges including Texas Wesleyan, Indiana, and Duke. He also worked as a scout and batting practice pitcher for MLB organizations such as the Rangers, Reds, and Pirates. Hiroshi Takahashi (1951–2025) was a professional baseball player in Japan, drafted by the Yakult Swallows but appearing in only 12 at-bats before retiring in 1984. He later contributed to the sport as a coach within the Yakult organization from 1991–1993 and 2001–2010. Jorge Trigoura (1936–2025) was a Cuban infielder who contributed to multiple international tournaments, helping Cuba win gold in the 1961 Amateur World Series and 1963 Pan American Games. He later became a successful manager in the Cuban National League, compiling a 287-170 regular-season record and leading several teams, including Industriales, to championships. Brent Wellman Urcheck (1976–2025) was an American baseball scout for the Cleveland Indians whose territory spanned much of the Northeastern United States and parts of eastern Pennsylvania. During his career he signed several notable players including Casey Gaynor, Matt Meyer, Matt McBride, and Nellie Rodriguez before his death on October 8, 2025. Timothy Wallace was a professional baseball player who reached AAA in the minors and excelled in Italy’s Serie A before retiring. He later became a highly successful junior college coach at Spartanburg Methodist College, compiling over 1,350 wins and leading his team to multiple NJCAA Division I World Series appearances before stepping down in 2025 due to health issues. Hidekazu Yoshizawa was a left-handed pitcher who signed with the Yomiuri Giants in 1963 but appeared in only five games for the top team before retiring in 1968. His professional career in Nippon Pro Baseball was brief, and he passed away in his hometown of Saku, Nagano in 2025.

Who was Terrance Gore? Terrance Jamar Gore (1991–2026) was an American professional baseball outfielder best known for his exceptional speed and highly specialized role as a pinch runner in Major League Baseball. Born in Macon, Georgia, Gore was a standout athlete in both football and baseball in high school, but chose to pursue baseball, turning down major college football scholarships. After one season at Gulf Coast Community College, where he excelled as a base stealer, he was drafted by the Kansas City Royals in 2011. Gore reached the major leagues in 2014 and quickly carved out one of the most unusual careers in modern baseball. Used almost exclusively as a late-inning pinch runner, he appeared primarily in September call-ups and postseason rosters for contending teams. Despite limited plate appearances and minimal offensive production, his speed made him a valuable tactical weapon, particularly in close playoff games. He spent time with the Royals, Cubs, Yankees organization, Dodgers, Braves, and Mets between 2014 and 2022. Over his MLB career, Gore stole 43 bases, recorded just one RBI, and never hit a home run, underscoring the singular nature of his role. He was part of three World Series–winning teams—the Royals in 2015, the Dodgers in 2020, and the Braves in 2021—earning championship rings despite limited or no World Series playing time. His presence on postseason rosters highlighted how elite speed alone could justify a major league spot. Gore played his final major league games with the New York Mets in 2022. He died on February 6, 2026, at the age of 34 from complications following surgery. Remembered as one of the fastest players of his era and a symbol of baseball’s strategic quirks, Gore’s career remains a rare example of a player who reached the sport’s highest level almost entirely on speed and situational value. Also, Mark Marquess died. https://gostanford.com/news/2026/01/30/legendary-head-coach-mark-marquess-passes-away Who was Mark Marquess? Mark Edward Marquess (1947–2026) was one of the most influential figures in American college baseball, best known for his 41-year tenure as head coach of the Stanford Cardinal from 1977 to 2017. Born and raised in Stockton, California, Marquess starred as a multi-sport athlete at Stanford University, playing first base on the baseball team and several positions on the football team. After being drafted by the Chicago White Sox in 1969, he spent four years in the minor leagues, reaching Triple-A and serving as a player-coach before transitioning fully into coaching. Marquess returned to Stanford as an assistant coach in the early 1970s and was promoted to head coach in 1977. Over four decades, he built Stanford into a national powerhouse, compiling a career record of 1,627–878–7 and leading the Cardinal to 23 NCAA postseason appearances. His teams won back-to-back College World Series championships in 1987 and 1988 and regularly contended for Pac-10 and later Pac-12 titles. Known for consistency and player development, his Stanford teams posted strong postseason records and became synonymous with sustained excellence. Beyond the collegiate game, Marquess played a major role internationally. He coached USA Baseball teams to multiple medals, including serving as head coach of the gold medal–winning U.S. team at the 1988 Seoul Olympics. He was also instrumental in the growth of USA Baseball, helping to found the organization and serving as its president from 1989 to 1998. His international résumé includes gold medals at the World Games and Intercontinental Cup and recognition as International Coach of the Year. Marquess retired after the 2017 season and was inducted into the College Baseball Hall of Fame in 2021. He died on January 30, 2026, at age 78. Remembered as a builder of programs, a leader on the international stage, and one of the winningest coaches in college baseball history, his legacy is closely tied to Stanford’s rise as a perennial national contender and to the broader development of baseball in the United States. And another less notable death, but he was noteworthy enough for a BR Bullpen article: Jun-ho Jeon (1975–2026) was a South Korean pitcher who spent 14 seasons in the KBO, highlighted by a breakout 2006 campaign in which he went 14–4 with a 3.39 ERA and led the league in winning percentage. He finished his career with a 55–47 record, 4.50 ERA, and 633 strikeouts over 1,056⅓ innings before retiring in 2011 and later died on January 1, 2026 after a long illness.

Word on the street is he died after complications from surgery.

https://www.newsweek.com/sports/mlb/world-series-winning-outfielder-dies-suddenly-at-34-11483173 Total shocker. A fun Met to have in 2022 and a totally cool personality.

Adbert Alzolay: Alzolay (elbow) is expected to be healthy for the start of spring training, Will Sammon of The Athletic reports. Alzolay agreed to a two-year minor-league deal with the Mets in January of 2025 and spent the year rehabbing from Tommy John surgery with his new club. All indications point to him being a full go for camp, and he could have an opportunity to earn a spot on the Opening Day roster. Injury Elbow. Est. Return 2/21/2026.

July 5, 2003. Mets at Reds. Barry Larkin was the sole Hall of Famer.

Rick Renick died. https://www.newsweek.com/sports/mlb/5-year-mlb-veteran-world-series-winning-coach-dies-11455823 Who was Rick Renick? Rick Renick (1944–2026) was an American professional baseball player, coach, and manager whose career spanned more than four decades in the sport. A versatile infielder and outfielder, Renick played five seasons in Major League Baseball with the Minnesota Twins from 1968 to 1972. He is best remembered as a role player and reserve, highlighted by hitting a home run in his first major league at-bat off Tigers ace Mickey Lolich. He finished his MLB playing career with a .221 batting average, 20 home runs, and 71 RBIs. After continuing in the minor leagues through 1978, Renick transitioned into coaching and managing. Beginning in 1979, he became a respected baseball instructor and spent 13 seasons on major league coaching staffs with the Kansas City Royals, Montreal Expos, Minnesota Twins, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Florida Marlins. His most prominent achievement came as the third-base coach for the Minnesota Twins’ 1987 World Series championship team. Renick also had a successful career as a minor league manager, earning American Association Manager of the Year honors in 1993 and 1996 while leading the Triple-A Nashville Sounds. Known for his steady leadership and teaching ability, he played a key role in player development across multiple organizations. Rick Renick died on January 31, 2026, at the age of 81, remembered as a dedicated baseball lifer whose impact extended well beyond his time as a major league player. Ron Teasley died. https://www.newsweek.com/sports/mlb/third-oldest-mlb-player-negro-leagues-veteran-dies-at-99-11462313 Who was Ron Teasley? Ronald “Schoolboy” Teasley (1927–2026) was an American professional baseball outfielder and educator from Detroit, Michigan. A standout athlete at Northwestern High School and Wayne State University, Teasley served in the U.S. Navy during World War II before playing professional baseball. In 1948, he briefly joined the Brooklyn Dodgers’ farm system and then the New York Cubans of the Negro National League, later playing in the integrated Mandak League. Teasley was among the college-educated players in the Negro Leagues and earned the nickname “Schoolboy” for his early athletic success. After his playing career, he spent decades coaching and teaching in the Detroit area. Recognized retroactively by MLB as a major leaguer, he was one of the last surviving Negro League players. Teasley passed away on February 3, 2026, at the age of 99, remembered as a pioneering athlete and dedicated educator. Also, who was Mickey Lolich? Mickey Lolich (1940–2026) was an American Major League Baseball pitcher best known as the unlikely hero of the Detroit Tigers’ 1968 World Series championship. A durable left-hander with an everyman image, Lolich built a 16-year career defined by heavy workloads, high strikeout totals, and postseason excellence. Born in Portland, Oregon, Lolich learned to throw left-handed after a childhood injury. After an uneven start in the minors, he debuted with the Tigers in 1963 and became a mainstay of their rotation. His defining moment came in 1968, when he pitched three complete-game victories in the World Series—capped by a Game 7 win over Bob Gibson—earning World Series MVP honors and helping Detroit rally from a 3–1 series deficit. Lolich reached his peak in the early 1970s. In 1971, he led the American League in wins, strikeouts, innings pitched, and complete games, throwing 376 innings and striking out 308 batters, a Tigers record. A three-time All-Star, he was known for endurance, frequently pitching deep into games and opposing pitch counts. He finished his career with brief stints with the New York Mets and San Diego Padres, retiring in 1979 with a 217–191 record, a 3.44 ERA, and 2,832 strikeouts—then the most ever by a left-handed pitcher. After baseball, Lolich ran a doughnut shop in suburban Michigan and remained active in charity and Tigers events. Though never elected to the Hall of Fame, he is remembered as a Tigers legend, a World Series icon, and a symbol of Detroit’s working-class spirit.

David Peralta has retired. Avisail Garcia has retired. David Robertson has retired.

Oh what a ruthless purge! The Mets have released: Sam Biller Alexander Eneas Haniel German Julian Hernandez Dalton Mall Matteo Marelli Yoelvis Martinez Leandy Mella Jahzeel Montas Layonel Ovalles Rayner Reyes Anthony Reynoso Jeffry Rosa Dangelo Sarmiento Deivy Victora An interesting group. Ovalles had a 2.17 ERA and 4-0 record in 2025, but that wasn't enough to keep him around. He'd been in their system since 2021, but hadn't played above High-A. Leandy Mella hit .296 with a .364 OBP in 2025, but that also wasn't enough to keep him around. Marelli played in the Italian league as a teen and was signed out of there. Eneas is from the Bahamas. Biller had potential with 5 steals, 6 runs and a .381 OBP in 6 games, despite a .235 BA. Rosa hit 15 home runs and slugged .669 for the DSL Mets Orange in 2023, but batted just .204 overall in his career. Mall had seemingly nothing going for him as his ERAs, per Baseball Reference, were 3.86, 12.74, infinite and 10.80, yet the Mets signed him anyway; he never actually played in their system.

I had been under the impression he'd been a goner for a while. Stuck around on the Hall of Fame ballot for a long time and has gotten VC support. With the way we reevaluate pitchers and put less emphasis on W-L record (a la Billy Pierce), I could see him getting more consideration again down the line -- especially since Jim Kaat finally got in. Also I've mispronounced his name my whole life; I thought the "Lol-" was like "lollipop," but it's actually like the word "low."

Mets release Luis Ortiz and Estarlin Escalante.

Looks like Tsung-Che is already seeing a Cheng of scenery as he was claimed off waivers by the Nationals.

He is also the son of Kevin Kessinger, who played in the minor leagues.

Mets bring aboard 28-year-old infielder Grae Kessinger, who didn't play in the big leagues in 2025, but did so in 2023 and 2024. He's not done much at the big league level, but can play all the infield positions and has even pitched, to the tune of a scoreless inning. Solid depth piece. https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2026/01/mets-grae-kessinger-agree-to-minor-league-deal.html

Dom Hamel, Blade Tidwell, Mike Vasil, Brandon Sproat, Thomas Szapucki, Christian Scott. A lot of starters have come up through their system since ~2021 with pretty big hopes pinned on each of them and none of them have really stuck. I remember Sproat as being another one. I guess we'll see with Tong and McLean. I also remember his first couple appearances, which were really solid, especially his second one (6 IP, 0 R).

I remember his first stint with the Mets and how well he did. .308 BA, 3 HR, 6 RBI in just 39 ABs. I remember when we traded Max Scherzer for him and how I was kind of bummed to lose Max Scherzer. I know some youngsters had to go (Vientos/Baty still included), but I actually didn't think it was going to be Acuna. Maybe Mauricio. He was twice a Top-100 prospect, so this one might sting in the future.

Dom Hamel on the move to the Yankees. It's nuts how quickly a guy goes from "he's a potential cog" in NY to just another wayward MLB traveler. He was the Mets' #9 prospect in 2022 and 2023, right up there with Mark Vientos.

Not sure we could find room for any of them, but the following might actually be able to help because of veteran presence or based on their performance last year: Starling Marte Justin Verlander Max Scherzer David Robertson Chris Bassitt Jose Quintana Justin Wilson Dominic Smith Max Kranick< -- worth another look