Cowtipper

Who was Billy Hunter? Billy Hunter was a Major League shortstop, coach, and manager who played six seasons from 1953 to 1958. He debuted with the St. Louis Browns and was their starting shortstop in their final season before they became the Baltimore Orioles. That year, he made the All-Star team and hit the Browns' final home run. After one season with the Orioles, he was traded to the Yankees in a blockbuster deal. Though mostly a reserve the rest of his career, he was part of the Yankees' 1956 World Series-winning roster. He also played for the Kansas City Athletics and the Cleveland Indians, finishing with a .219 batting average. After retiring as a player, Hunter coached for the Orioles from 1964 to 1977, including their championship seasons in 1966 and 1970. In 1977, he became manager of the Texas Rangers and led them to a strong finish that year, though he was fired in 1978 after internal conflict. He later served as head baseball coach and athletic director at Towson State University, helping elevate their athletic programs. At the time of his death in July 2025 at age 97, Hunter was the last living player from both the St. Louis Browns and the inaugural 1954 Orioles. He was inducted into the Orioles Hall of Fame in 1996 and the Towson Hall of Fame in 1998. Who was Bobby Jenks? Bobby Jenks (1981–2025) was a hard-throwing MLB relief pitcher best known for closing games during the Chicago White Sox’s 2005 World Series championship run. A two-time All-Star, Jenks also set a then-record by retiring 41 consecutive batters in 2007. Originally drafted by the Anaheim Angels in 2000, Jenks struggled with injuries, control problems, and personal issues, including alcohol use, leading the Angels to cut ties with him. The White Sox claimed him in 2004, and he debuted in 2005, quickly becoming a key bullpen arm. He made the final out in Game 4 of the World Series, securing the White Sox’s first title since 1917. After several productive seasons in Chicago, Jenks signed with the Boston Red Sox in 2011, but his career was derailed by serious spinal problems. A botched back surgery led to life-threatening complications, multiple additional procedures, and forced retirement. He later sued and won a malpractice case related to the surgery. Post-retirement, Jenks became a successful minor league coach and manager. He also opened up about his battles with addiction, mental health, and redemption—maintaining long-term sobriety and mentoring young players. In 2025, while managing in the Frontier League, Jenks revealed he was battling stage 4 stomach cancer. He died on July 4, 2025, at age 44 in Portugal. The White Sox planned to honor him during the 20th anniversary celebration of their 2005 title. Jenks is remembered as a flawed but fierce competitor whose life was marked by turbulence, triumph, and transformation.

Raley was sent on rehab to Syracuse. So was Winker. Colin Poche is back! They signed him to a minor league deal.

Well, the Mets do have a history of fabricating injuries.

There are two teams available now: #1: Hello! I currently run a prize award fantasy league on Yahoo and am looking for people to adopt three teams. It's a points-only league with prizes going the top three finishers. These past few years I've been spending $200+ on prizes, so you're not getting junk. Team 1: Fernando Tatis Jr. Cody Bellinger Rafael Devers Jose Altuve Dansby Swanson Jo Adell Lourdes Gurriel Jr. Lars Nootbaar Ryan Jeffers Mickey Moniak Mike Yastrzemski Andrew Benintendi Lenyn Sosa Josh Lowe Ryan Mountcastle Matthew Boyd Taj Bradley Dean Kremer Jeff Hoffman Tomoyuki Sugano Luis Severino Miles Mikolas Sean Burke Edwin Uceta Mason Miller Carlos Estévez Shelby Miller Bryce Miller #2: Pete Crow-Armstrong Matt Olson Corbin Carroll Oneil Cruz Xavier Edwards Cedric Mullins Wilmer Flores Jonathan India Ke'Bryan Hayes Pavin Smith Daniel Schneemann Pedro Pagés Chase Meidroth Patrick Bailey Luis Rengifo Gabriel Arias Connor Norby Mike Tauchman Sonny Gray Nathan Eovaldi Jack Flaherty Will Warren Alex Vesia Pablo López Reese Olson Tony Santillan Andrés Muñoz Kyle Finnegan More: League Settings Summary Auto-Renew League: Yes Invite Permissions: All Managers Can Invite Maximum Teams: 20 Scoring Type: Points Only Player Universe: All Baseball New Player Availability: As soon as Yahoo adds them Player Acquisitions Limit: No maximum Trade Limit: No maximum Trade Deadline: August 7, 2025 Draft Pick Trading: Not Allowed Waivers & Roster Management Waiver Time: No waivers Waiver Priority: Continual Rolling List Waiver Mode: Standard Can't Cut List: None Trade Review Process: None Post-Draft Free Agents: Follow Waiver Rules Injured Player Slots: Can be filled directly Benched Player Lock: No (players not locked after game starts) Public League: No Email Reminders for Unjoined Players: Yes Scoring & Roster Rules Max Games (Non-Pitchers): 162 Max Innings Pitched: 1,450 Roster Changes: Daily (Today) Scoring Starts: Tuesday, March 18 Scoring Ends: Week 25 (Sunday, September 28) Let me know if you are interested!

Colin Poche elected free agency. That was one of the quickest Mets ever. Instead of trying one of their promising prospects, they're throwing another washed-up Quadruple-A nobody at the wall, having called up Rico Garcia. Blade Tidwell was optioned, having proven he doesn't quite have what it takes for the big leagues yet. Austin Warren is listed as being recalled on the 2nd, optioned on the 3rd (today) then recalled again on the 3rd (today). This is the worst pitching carousel since the late 2010s. This Just in, Hagenman is back up. Mets signed some youth named Sebastian Lantigua. Manaea to Binghamton for rehab. Jesse Winker, too. Mets traded Donovan Walton to the Phillies for cash. Travis Swaggerty was released. Lots of moves these past three days, yet none of them seem like they'll make the team any better.

Tucker Barnhart has retired.

Looking for someone to adopt a team in this league. Top players: Rafael Devers Fernando Tatis Jr. Dansby Swanson Cody Bellinger Matthew Boyd Any takers?

Griffin Canning: The Mets placed Canning on the 60-day injured list with a ruptured left Achilles tendon Friday. Canning struck out three and gave up just one hit in 2.2 innings Thursday against Atlanta before he had to be removed from the game and helped off the field. To those that saw the injury, this was the expected outcome. Canning will miss the remainder of the 2025 season and possibly even the start of the 2026 campaign, as he has a lengthy rehab ahead of him. Canning was enjoying a career season with the Mets, but it's now over with a 7-3 record, 3.77 ERA and 70:35 K:BB across 76.1 innings and 16 starts. Blade Tidwell has been recalled from Triple-A Syracuse in a corresponding move. Injury Achilles. Est. Return 2/1/2026. Sean Manaea: Manaea (oblique/elbow) played catch Thursday, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports. It's the first time he's thrown since he was given a cortisone shot after being diagnosed with a loose body in his left elbow. Manaea had to pause his rehab assignment briefly after the elbow issue popped up, but he's on track to make what is expected to be his final rehab start next week. The left-hander initially went on the injured list prior to Opening Day with an oblique strain and could make his 2025 Mets debut prior to the All-Star break. Injury Elbow. Est. Return 7/8/2025. Brooks Raley: Raley (elbow) is slated to move his rehab assignment from Single-A St. Lucie to Double-A Binghamton on Saturday, Laura Albanese of Newsday reports. Raley continues to progress in his recovery from May 2024 Tommy John surgery. He made three rehab outings in Single-A, allowing three hits and no walks while striking out six across three scoreless innings. Given how good he's looked in limited action, Raley appears to be on track to rejoin the Mets' bullpen sometime in July. Injury Elbow. Est. Return 7/8/2025. Jesse Winker: Winker (oblique) will begin a rehab assignment with High-A Brooklyn on Sunday, Andrew Tredinnick of The Bergen Record reports. Winker was officially cleared for rehab games after taking batting practice at Citi Field on Thursday. The 31-year-old is eligible for activation from the 60-day injured list July 4 and has a good shot to return on that date. Winker has been shelved since early May with a Grade 2 oblique strain. Upon his return, Winker should see plenty of action at designated hitter versus right-handed pitching. Injury Oblique. Est. Return 7/4/2025. Other injuries: Ty Adcock - 7-day IL Matt Allan - 7-day IL Trey McLoughlin - 7-day IL

Cesar Puello was a top prospect who flunked out of the Mets system, looked done, then eventually signed elsewhere and reached the majors. I wouldn't be surprised if Ramirez follows the same path. I also saw that Jesse Winker was sent on a rehab assignment to Brooklyn. Also, Connor Overton, released in March, was eventually signed by the Blue Jays. Eldridge Armstrong, released in March, signed with the Glacier Range Riders (indy). Andrew Carson, released in March, was signed by the Mariners. Jeremy Peguero, released in March, was signed by the Mississippi Mud Monsters (indy).

This Team Is Not C̶l̶u̶t̶c̶h̶ Good Fixed it for you.

Let's catch up on some non-player mini-bios: Walt Jocketty died. https://www.mlb.com/news/walt-jocketty-former-cardinals-and-reds-gm-passes-away-at-74 Who was Walt Jocketty? Walt Jocketty was a highly respected Major League Baseball executive whose career spanned over four decades. Born on February 19, 1951, in Minneapolis, he began his baseball career with the Oakland Athletics in 1980, eventually becoming Director of Baseball Administration. He played a key role in developing the team's farm system and helped establish the Arizona Rookie League and the Dominican Summer League. After a brief stint as assistant GM of the Colorado Rockies in 1994, Jocketty became general manager of the St. Louis Cardinals later that year. Over 13 seasons with St. Louis, he helped build one of the league's most successful franchises, guiding the team to seven division titles, two National League pennants (2004, 2006), and a World Series championship in 2006. He was a three-time Sporting News Executive of the Year and brought manager Tony La Russa from Oakland to St. Louis, further strengthening the club's leadership. Jocketty was dismissed by the Cardinals in 2007 due to reported internal disagreements. He quickly joined the Cincinnati Reds as a special advisor in 2008 and became the team's general manager just months later. Under his leadership, the Reds returned to prominence, and he later served as President of Baseball Operations and executive advisor until his death. Walt Jocketty died on April 25, 2025, in Phoenix, Arizona, at the age of 74. He was widely recognized for his eye for talent, front office leadership, and contributions to player development across multiple organizations, and was honored with induction into the St. Louis Cardinals Hall of Fame. Roy Majtyka died. Facebook WWW.FACEBOOK.COM Who was Roy Majtyka? Roy Majtyka was an American baseball coach, infielder, and longtime minor league manager. Born on June 1, 1939, in Buffalo, New York, he played in the St. Louis Cardinals organization from 1959 to 1967, reaching Triple-A but never making the majors as a player. His most successful season was 1963, when he batted .281 with the Tulsa Oilers. Majtyka transitioned into managing in 1968, beginning a 27-year career in the minor leagues that included time with the Cardinals, Reds, Tigers, Braves, and Phillies organizations. His teams amassed a career record of 1,832 wins and 1,747 losses, and he earned several accolades, including a Florida State League championship in 1973 and Eastern League Manager of the Year honors in 1976. He led multiple teams to playoff berths and won another championship with the 1983 Birmingham Barons. From 1988 to 1990, Majtyka spent three seasons as a coach with the Atlanta Braves—the only break from his lengthy minor league managerial run. He later became a respected figure in the South Atlantic League, ranking among the top 20 all-time in minor league managerial wins. Roy Majtyka died on February 24, 2025, in Wagoner, Oklahoma, at age 85. John Shulock died. https://www.strunkfuneralhome.com/obituary/john-shulock Who was John Shulock? John Richard Shulock was a Major League Baseball umpire whose career spanned from 1979 to 2002. Born on April 29, 1949, in Lockport, New York, he died on June 5, 2025, in Vero Beach, Florida. Shulock began his baseball journey as a minor league infielder in the Minnesota Twins organization from 1967 to 1969 but never made it to the majors as a player. He transitioned into umpiring in 1974 and rose quickly through the ranks, reaching the major leagues in 1979 during the MLB umpire strike, when he crossed picket lines to become a replacement umpire. This decision earned him a permanent spot in the American League but also long-standing resentment from his peers, who labeled him a "scab" and excluded him from the umpires’ union. Despite the controversy, Shulock earned a reputation as a skilled umpire, working 3,050 major league games. His assignments included two World Series (1985, 1992), two All-Star Games (1983, 1994), four AL Championship Series, and two AL Division Series. He even reached the rank of crew chief. Notable moments in his career included being on the field for Nolan Ryan's sixth no-hitter and Rickey Henderson’s 3,000th hit, which also marked Tony Gwynn’s final game. However, his temper occasionally got the better of him. In 1999, he was suspended three games after charging the mound during a game, wrongly believing he had been intentionally targeted by a pitch. His remarks afterward, including a wish for harm to the pitcher, drew further criticism. Though his early entrance into MLB was fraught with controversy, Shulock lasted over two decades in the big leagues and was regarded by many players as one of the league's better umpires. Who was Fay Vincent? Fay Vincent was an American lawyer, film executive, and baseball commissioner who served as the 8th Commissioner of Major League Baseball from 1989 to 1992. A graduate of Williams College and Yale Law School, Vincent overcame a devastating spinal injury in college that left him partially disabled for life. Before entering baseball, he held leadership roles at Columbia Pictures and Coca-Cola. He became deputy commissioner under Bart Giamatti and ascended to commissioner after Giamatti's sudden death in 1989. Vincent's tenure as commissioner was marked by major events and bold decisions. He oversaw the 1989 World Series, which was famously interrupted by the Loma Prieta earthquake. He banned Yankees owner George Steinbrenner for life (later reinstated) for paying a gambler to find damaging information on player Dave Winfield. He also permanently suspended pitcher Steve Howe for repeated drug offenses (a decision later overturned). Vincent redefined what constitutes a no-hitter and formally recognized Roger Maris as the single-season home run record holder. He was deeply critical of owner collusion in the 1980s, helped end the 1990 lockout, and attempted to realign the National League geographically—an effort blocked by the Chicago Cubs, resulting in litigation. His relationship with owners soured over time due to his independent streak, his handling of disciplinary matters, and the financial fallout of a TV contract with CBS. He resigned in 1992 after a no-confidence vote by the owners, who replaced him with Bud Selig. Vincent later said his refusal to serve the owners' interests over the game's integrity cost him his job. After baseball, Vincent remained active in the sport as president of the New England Collegiate Baseball League and became a vocal critic of both the 1994 strike and the steroid era. He also authored a memoir, *The Last Commissioner*, and remained outspoken on baseball and public issues until his death. Vincent died of bladder cancer on February 1, 2025, at age 86. Who was John Feinstein? John Feinstein was a prolific American sportswriter, author, and commentator, best known for his deep and humanizing explorations of athletes, coaches, and the culture of sports. Born in New York City in 1955, he graduated from Duke University in 1977 and went on to write 44 books, blending investigative journalism with narrative storytelling. His most famous work, A Season on the Brink, followed coach Bobby Knight and the Indiana Hoosiers through the 1985–86 basketball season and helped establish Feinstein as a major figure in sports literature. His writing spanned a wide range of sports—golf (A Good Walk Spoiled), football (Next Man Up), baseball (Where Nobody Knows Your Name), and more—often highlighting lesser-known stories and personalities with a journalist’s eye and a novelist’s voice. He also authored a series of sports-themed young adult mysteries featuring teen reporters Stevie Thomas and Susan Carol Anderson covering major sporting events. Feinstein worked across many media platforms, including The Washington Post, Golf Digest, Sporting News, NPR, The Golf Channel, and various radio programs. He briefly hosted shows on SiriusXM and CBS Sports Radio. His book Caddy for Life, about Tom Watson’s longtime caddie Bruce Edwards, was turned into a Golf Channel documentary and drew attention for its emotional depth. Despite shifting media roles, Feinstein remained a dedicated columnist and published his final piece in The Washington Post the day he died. Known for his sharp insights and passionate defense of ethical journalism, he often challenged powerful sports institutions and figures. He died of a heart attack on March 13, 2025, at age 69, leaving behind a legacy as one of America's most respected and widely read sportswriters. Also, one straggler: Gary Boyd died. Who was Gary Boyd? Gary Lee Boyd, born August 22, 1946, in Pasadena, California, was a former right-handed pitcher who briefly played in Major League Baseball with the Cleveland Indians during the final two months of the 1969 season. He appeared in eight games, including three starts, finishing with an 0–2 record and a 9.00 earned run average over 11 innings. Control issues plagued his major league stint, as he walked 14 batters while striking out nine. Boyd was originally signed by the Indians as an amateur free agent out of Junipero Serra High School in Gardena, California, and spent several years in their minor league system from 1965 to 1971. Known as a power pitcher, he consistently struck out over 100 batters in each of his first three professional seasons. However, his minor league career featured moderate success, with a career record of 46–52 and a 4.26 ERA over eight seasons. His best minor league season came in 1970, when he went 9–8 for the Savannah Indians. After his major league experience, Boyd played one more season in the Chicago White Sox organization with the Tucson Toros before retiring in 1972.

The evidence is fairly circumstantial, but one is about 95% sure he's actually deceased, so I'll post this here. Footer Johnson died. The evidence extends beyond the link below, however I'll use that as my source: https://www.azbar.org/news-publications/in-memoriam/ Who was Footer Johnson? Footer Johnson, born Richard Allan Johnson on February 15, 1932, in Dayton, Ohio, was a left-handed outfielder and pinch hitter who played briefly in Major League Baseball for the Chicago Cubs in 1958. A former student at Duke University and the University of Arizona, he signed with the Cubs in 1952 and began his pro baseball career in the minor leagues. After early stints with Des Moines and Cedar Rapids, his playing career was interrupted by military service during the Korean War. He returned in 1956 and steadily improved, hitting a career-high .298 in 1957 across two teams. In 1958, after batting .297 for Fort Worth, Johnson was called up to the Cubs and appeared in eight games—five as a pinch hitter and three as a pinch runner. Though he went hitless in five at-bats, he did score one run, which proved to be the go-ahead score in a Cubs win on June 22. His MLB stint lasted just 45 days. He returned to the minors that year and played through 1960, finishing his minor league career with a .274 average over 662 games. Johnson left baseball to attend law school and later practiced law in Arizona. He reportedly passed away in March 2024.

I barely even knew he was a Met when he was a Met.

Hosken Powell died. https://www.startribune.com/minnesota-twins-detroit-tigers-byron-buxton-rocco-baldelli/601383465 Who was Hosken Powell? Hosken Powell was an American professional baseball outfielder who played in Major League Baseball from 1978 to 1983, primarily with the Minnesota Twins and later with the Toronto Blue Jays. Born on May 14, 1955, in Selma, Alabama, Powell batted and threw left-handed, stood 6-foot-1, and attended Chipola College. Drafted by the Twins in the first round of the secondary phase of the 1975 draft, he hit over .300 in each of his first three minor league seasons and was a California League All-Star in 1976. Powell debuted on Opening Day in 1978 as the Twins’ starting right fielder and leadoff hitter. His rookie season saw him hit .247 in 99 starts. He enjoyed his best major league season in 1979, batting .293, and followed that with a career-high 127 hits in 1980, though his average dipped to .262. That year he also led AL right-fielders in errors. His production declined in 1981, and he was traded to Toronto, where he rebounded in 1982 with a .275 average in 112 games, mostly as a reserve. However, a poor start to 1983 led to his release. After leaving the majors, Powell played in the minors for the Vancouver Canadians and ended his pro career in the Mexican League in 1985. Over six MLB seasons, he appeared in 594 games, collecting 470 hits, including 78 doubles, 17 triples, and 17 home runs, with a .259 career batting average. Notably, he hit his first big-league homer off Hall of Famer Jim Palmer and had strong career numbers against both Palmer and Fergie Jenkins. Powell was named to the 1978 Topps All-Star Rookie Team. He died on June 28, 2025, at age 70. Bill Dailey died. https://www.lotzfuneralhomevinton.com/tributes/William-Dailey Who was Bill Dailey? Bill Dailey was a right-handed relief pitcher who played in the major leagues from 1961 to 1964, appearing with the Cleveland Indians and the Minnesota Twins. Born on May 13, 1935, in Arlington, Virginia, he stood 6-foot-3 and weighed 185 pounds. After nearly nine years in the minor leagues, where he showed early promise—leading the 1955 Three-I League in ERA—Dailey debuted with the Indians in 1961. His best season came in 1963 with the Twins, when he posted a 6–3 record, a 1.99 ERA, and 21 saves in 66 games, ranking among the league leaders in both appearances and saves. However, a rotator cuff injury in 1964 cut his career short. Over 119 major league games, all in relief, Dailey compiled a 10–7 record, a 2.76 ERA, and 22 saves while striking out 109 batters in 185 2/3 innings. He died on January 11, 2025, at the age of 89.

Poche has been DFA'd. Dicky Lovelady has been re-signed.

Ed Mickelson died. https://www.schrader.com/obituary/edward-mickelson Who was Ed Mickelson? Edward Allen Mickelson (September 9, 1926 – June 27, 2025) was an American professional baseball player best remembered for his long and productive minor league career and a brief, historically notable stint in Major League Baseball (MLB). A right-handed first baseman standing 6'3" and weighing 205 pounds, Mickelson played in just 18 MLB games across three teams—the St. Louis Cardinals (1950), St. Louis Browns (1953), and Chicago Cubs (1957)—while spending the bulk of his 11-season career in the minors. Born in Ottawa, Illinois, Mickelson served in World War II (1944–1946) before attending Washington University in St. Louis and Oklahoma A&M, where he played college baseball. He signed with the Cardinals in 1947 and excelled in the minors, hitting .413 across two leagues in 1950, which earned him a short call-up to the majors. His most historically significant MLB moment came on September 27, 1953, when he drove in the final run in St. Louis Browns history, an RBI single against the Chicago White Sox. That marked his third and final major league hit. He did not play for the Browns’ successor, the Baltimore Orioles, and finished his MLB career with three hits in 37 at-bats. Despite limited major league success, Mickelson was a standout in the minors, amassing 1,374 hits and batting .316, including several successful seasons in the Pacific Coast League with the Portland Beavers. He noted the league's favorable conditions and good pay compared to MLB. Mickelson authored a memoir, Out of the Park: Memoir of a Minor League Baseball All-Star (2007), where he shared insights from his career, including his first MLB hit off Hall of Famer Warren Spahn. He passed away at age 98 in 2025, making him the third oldest former MLB player at the time. His death left Billy Hunter as the last living former St. Louis Brown. Also, who was Dave Parker? David Gene "Cobra" Parker (June 9, 1951 – June 28, 2025) was a towering and powerful left-handed slugger whose MLB career spanned from 1973 to 1991. Known for his cannon arm, explosive bat, and outsized presence, Parker played primarily as a right fielder, most notably with the Pittsburgh Pirates and later with the Cincinnati Reds, Oakland Athletics, and several other clubs. In his prime, he was among the most feared hitters in baseball, winning two National League batting titles and the 1978 NL MVP award. He was a seven-time All-Star and a three-time Gold Glove winner, anchoring the "We Are Family" Pirates team that won the 1979 World Series. In 1985, he became the inaugural Home Run Derby champion and finished second in MVP voting with the Reds, where he enjoyed a renaissance after early career struggles with injuries and drug abuse. Parker's immense talent was shadowed for years by his central role in the Pittsburgh drug trials of the 1980s, which likely suppressed his Hall of Fame candidacy during his 15 years on the BBWAA ballot. Despite strong career statistics—2,712 hits, 339 home runs, and 1,493 RBIs—he peaked at just 25% of the vote. Ultimately, he was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2025 by the Veterans Committee, joining the likes of Dick Allen as a slugger whose off-field controversies delayed his recognition. Known for his style and swagger—he was one of the first players to wear an earring on the field and used a sledgehammer to warm up—Parker also served as a coach and ran businesses in retirement. Diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2012, he dedicated much of his later life to raising awareness and funds for a cure. He passed away on June 28, 2025, at the age of 74, shortly before he was to be formally inducted into Cooperstown.

Since this deals mostly with the Mets major league club and demoted usually means to the minors, I have faith you can figure it out.

Canning to 60-day IL. Mets have re-signed Jose Azocar. Colin Poche promoted. Adam Warren demoted. Richard Lovelady outrighted. Blade Tidwell promoted.

He was a great regression candidate, so in the long run he probably would've pitched like Frankie Montas traditionally has, leaving us groaning. It could be worse. Time for Sproat/Hamel/McLean. EDIT: Actually, he was already mid-regression and has sucked since mid/late May. His WHIP is nearly 1.400 (1.379 ish) which is unsustainable., I'm not too worried about this one.

Jonathan Pintaro down. Austin Warren up.

The following players have officially retired in calendar year 2025: Nick Ahmed - 2014-2025; 2x GG Eddy Alvarez - 2020-2022, 2024 Jake Alu - 2023 Daniel Bard - 2009-2013, 2020-2023 Tucker Barnhart - 2014-2025; 2x GG Richard Bleier - 2016-2023 Trevor Cahill - 2009-2021; 1x ASG Matt Carpenter - 2011-2024; 3x ASG, 1x SS, 179 HR Curt Casali - 2014-2024 Jesse Chavez - 2008-2025; 657 G Tyler Cyr - 2022-2023 David Dahl - 2016, 2018-2021, 2023-2024; 1x ASG Jake Diekman - 2012-2024; 705 G Fraser Ellard - 2024-2025 David Fletcher - 2018-2024 Freddy Galvis - 2012-2021 Stone Garrett - 2022-2024 Kyle Gibson - 2013-2025; 1x ASG, 1,520 Ks Niko Goodrum - 2017-2024 Josh Harrison - 2011-2023; 2x ASG Andrew Heaney - 2014-2025 Adeiny Hechavarría - 2012-2020 Kyle Hendricks - 2014-2025 Jae-gyun Hwang - 2017 Jay Jackson - 2015-2024 Travis Jankowski - 2015-2025 Joe Kelly - 2012-2024 Tony Kemp - 2016-2024 Clayton Kershaw - 2008-2025; 3x CYA, 1x MVP, 1x Triple Crown, 11x ASG, 1x ROY, 1x Gold Glove; 223 W, 2.53 ERA, 3052 K Andrew Knapp - 2017-2024 Jake Lamb - 2014-2023, 1x ASG Evan Longoria - 2008-2023; ROY, 3x ASG, 3x GG, 1x SS, 342 HR Arturo Lopez - 2009 Lance Lynn - 2011-2024; 2x ASG, 143 W Martin Maldonado - 2011-2025; 1x GG Jose Martinez - 2016-2020 Kyle McGowin - 2018-2021 Whit Merrifield - 2016-2024; 3x ASG, 3x SB champ Charlie Morton - 2008-2025; 2x ASG, 2196 K Mike Moustakas - 2011-2023; 3x ASG, 215 HR Austin Nola - 2019-2023, 2025 Chris Owings - 2013-2023 Brett Phillips - 2017-2023 Kevin Pillar - 2013 - 2025 Kevin Plawecki - 2015-2022 Wilson Ramos - 2010-2021; 2x ASG, 1 SS, 136 HR JT Riddle - 2017-2022 Stephen Ridings - 2021 Anthony Rizzo - 2011-2024; 3x ASG, 4x GG, 1x SS, 303 HR Niuman Romero - 2009-2010 Hector Sanchez - 2011-2017 Jean Segura - 2012-2023; 2x ASG, 1545 H Max Stassi - 2013-2022 Ross Stripling - 2016-2024; 1x ASG Dan Straily - 2012-2019 Erik Swanson - 2019-2025 Michael A. Taylor - 2014-2025; 1x GG Bubba Thompson - 2022-2024 Cole Tucker - 2019-2024 Daniel Vogelbach - 2016-2024; 1x ASG Kolten Wong - 2013-2023; 2x GG Alex Wood - 2013-2024; 1x ASG

One of the luckiest Mets pitchers in recent history. A 2.38 ERA despite a WHIP of nearly 2.

Vic Harris died. https://www.mckaysmortuaries.com/obituary/victor-harris?lud=C78E174E63B324C4F17A8D1755F49B9A Who was Vic Harris? Victor Lanier Harris (1950–2025) was a versatile American professional baseball player who spent eight seasons in Major League Baseball (MLB) from 1972 to 1980. A switch-hitting utility man known for his speed and defensive versatility, Harris played for five MLB teams: the Texas Rangers, Chicago Cubs, St. Louis Cardinals, San Francisco Giants, and Milwaukee Brewers. After excelling at Los Angeles Valley College and earning Junior College All-American honors, Harris was drafted in the first round of the 1970 MLB Draft (secondary phase) by the Oakland Athletics. He showed early promise in the minors, leading multiple teams in offensive categories. In July 1972, he was traded to the Rangers and made his MLB debut the next day. Harris made history with a record-setting 0-for-35 hitless start to his career but rebounded to become the Rangers’ regular second baseman. In 1973, he was moved to center field and posted career highs in games played, home runs (8), and RBIs (44). After that season, he was traded to the Cubs in a blockbuster deal involving Hall of Famer Ferguson Jenkins. Harris struggled offensively in Chicago and underwent knee surgery in 1974, derailing his potential as a starter. Over the next several years, Harris filled a utility role with the Cardinals, Giants, and Brewers, playing all over the diamond. In total, he played at least 27 games at six different positions, most frequently at second base. His MLB career totals include a .217 batting average, 13 home runs, and 121 RBIs across 579 games. In 1981, Harris revitalized his career in Japan with the Kintetsu Buffaloes, hitting 22 home runs and driving in 74 runs in his debut season—numbers that exceeded any of his MLB outputs. He became only the fourth player in Nippon Professional Baseball history to homer from both sides of the plate in a single game, and repeated the feat in 1983. However, declining performance and injuries ended his professional career after a stint with the Louisville Redbirds in 1984. Following baseball, Harris worked in aerospace with Rockwell and Boeing and later served as an instructor at MLB’s Urban Youth Academy from 2006 to 2013. He passed away on April 26, 2025, at the age of 75. Harris is remembered as a promising talent who became a valued utility player and international contributor to the sport. Diego Segui died. Who was Diego Segui? Diego Pablo Seguí González (born August 17, 1937, in Holguín, Cuba) was a Cuban professional baseball pitcher best known for his longevity, versatility, and unique place in MLB history. A right-hander with a signature forkball, Seguí played 15 MLB seasons from 1962 to 1977, compiling a 92–111 record, 3.81 ERA, 1,298 strikeouts, and 71 saves. Seguí played for eight different MLB teams, including both of Seattle’s major league franchises—the Seattle Pilots (1969) and the Seattle Mariners (1977)—making him the only player to appear for both and to pitch in each team’s inaugural game. He was affectionately nicknamed “The Ancient Mariner” at age 39 during his brief stint with the Mariners. His best MLB season came in 1970 with the Oakland Athletics, when he led the American League with a 2.56 ERA. That followed a standout year with the Seattle Pilots in 1969, where he set career highs in wins (12), saves (6), and was named the team’s Most Valuable Player. Seguí was a true swingman—capable of starting or relieving—who contributed to several clubs including the Kansas City/Oakland A’s, Washington Senators, St. Louis Cardinals, and Boston Red Sox, for whom he pitched in the 1975 World Series. Outside MLB, Seguí had an exceptional international career. In the Mexican League, he pitched for a decade, posting a 96–61 record with a 2.91 ERA and throwing a no-hitter in 1978. He was even more dominant in the Venezuelan Winter League, where he became the all-time strikeout leader (941) and ranks among the top five in wins, ERA, and innings pitched. Seguí was inducted into the Venezuelan Baseball Hall of Fame (2003) and the Hispanic Heritage Baseball Museum Hall of Fame (2006). His legacy continues through his son, David Seguí, a 15-season MLB first baseman. Diego Seguí remains a celebrated figure in Latin American baseball history and a symbol of durability and international excellence. Matt Murray died. https://www.maxbrannonandsons.com/obituaries/matthew-murray Who was Matt Murray? Matt Murray was a right-handed pitcher born in Boston, Massachusetts, in 1970. He played briefly in Major League Baseball during the 1995 season for the Atlanta Braves and Boston Red Sox. Standing 6'6" and weighing 240 pounds, Murray batted left-handed. His MLB career was short, spanning from his debut on August 12, 1995, to his final game on September 25, 1995. Over that time, he recorded a win-loss record of 0–3, an earned run average (ERA) of 9.64, and struck out 4 batters. After his time in MLB, he also pitched in Taiwan’s Chinese Professional Baseball League for the Brother Elephants in 1997, where he pitched 2 innings with a 9.00 ERA and 2 strikeouts. Matt Murray passed away on June 24, 2025, at age 54 in Calhoun, Georgia. Also, who was Ron Taylor? Ron Taylor was a Canadian-born Major League pitcher and later a physician, known for his pivotal role in the 1969 "Miracle Mets" championship and for becoming one of the few athletes to successfully pivot into a medical career. Born in Toronto in 1937, Taylor pitched in the majors from 1962 to 1972, beginning with the Cleveland Indians before stints with the Cardinals, Astros, Mets, and Padres. He earned World Series rings with both the 1964 Cardinals and 1969 Mets, distinguishing himself as a reliable reliever and a steady presence in big moments, including a key Game 4 save in the ’64 Series and strong outings in the ’69 postseason. Taylor was highly educated for a ballplayer, holding an electrical engineering degree from the University of Toronto, which he completed while beginning his baseball career. After retiring from the game, he returned to school at 35 and became a medical doctor, eventually serving over two decades as the Toronto Blue Jays’ team physician and running a sports medicine clinic. His transition from the mound to medicine was inspired in part by a USO tour to Vietnam, where he was struck by the work of military doctors. Fans remember him for his intelligence, humility, and generosity—buying beers for soldiers in Vietnam, giving time to kids at YMCA gyms, and sharing stories with Mets fans decades after retirement. He was deeply respected for his service to both the game and his community. Taylor was honored with inductions into the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame and Canada's Sports Hall of Fame, and received the Order of Ontario for his achievements. He passed away in 2025, leaving behind a legacy as both a World Series champion and a healer. More Ron Taylor was a Canadian-born Major League Baseball pitcher and physician, remembered for a unique dual career in professional sports and medicine. Born in Toronto in 1937, Taylor pitched for five MLB teams between 1962 and 1972, including the Cleveland Indians, St. Louis Cardinals, Houston Astros, New York Mets, and San Diego Padres. He was part of two World Series-winning teams: the 1964 Cardinals and the 1969 "Miracle Mets." Known for his effective relief pitching, Taylor maintained a 3.93 ERA over 800 innings, with 74 saves in 491 games, and was perfect in four career World Series appearances, never allowing a hit. Taylor balanced his early baseball career with academics, earning a degree in electrical engineering from the University of Toronto. After retiring from baseball, he returned to school to study medicine, inspired by a USO trip to Vietnam. He earned his medical degree in 1977 and became the long-time team physician for the Toronto Blue Jays, serving for over 30 years and earning two more World Series rings with them in 1992 and 1993. Known as “Doctor Baseball,” he also ran a private medical practice in Toronto until his retirement in 2014. Widely honored in Canada, Taylor was inducted into the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame, Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame, and the Ontario Sports Hall of Fame. He was also appointed to the Order of Ontario in 2005. He passed away on June 16, 2025, at the age of 87 after a long illness, leaving behind a legacy that bridged excellence in both athletics and medicine. And finally, Chuck Cottier died -- in 2021. Rumors has been spreading for a while that he'd passed, but nothing was solid enough that I felt comfortable posting it. However, the word seems to be spreading. https://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=cottich01 Who was Chuck Cottier? Chuck Cottier was a right-handed second baseman, manager, and coach in Major League Baseball whose career spanned multiple decades. Born in Delta, Colorado in 1936, he played nine seasons in the majors between 1959 and 1969 for the Milwaukee Braves, Detroit Tigers, Washington Senators, and California Angels. Though a light hitter with a lifetime batting average of .220, Cottier was known for his solid defense and leadership. His best season came in 1962 with career highs in several offensive categories. After an Achilles tendon injury ended his playing career in 1969, he began managing in the minors, earning praise from players for his leadership and baseball acumen. He joined the Mets as a coach from 1979 to 1981, later serving on staffs with the Mariners, Cubs, Orioles, and Phillies. In 1984, he became manager of the Seattle Mariners, compiling a 98–119 record before being dismissed early in the 1986 season. Beloved by fans, colleagues, and family alike, Cottier was remembered as an aggressive third base coach—nicknamed "The man with the Golden Arm"—and a passionate manager, once famously throwing first base into right field during a heated argument. Off the field, he was described as humble, kind, and generous with his time and wisdom. His only child, Cody, was a devoted supporter. Cottier passed away in Edmonds, Washington in 2021 at age 85.

Mets are promoting Dom Hamel ❌ Nolan McLean ❌ Brandon Sproat ❌ Jonathan Pintaro ✅ A 27-year-old Double-A pitcher with all of 4 innings of AAA experience under his belt.

Jose Urena is on the move again as he just signed a minor league deal with the Twins. He's been in four MLB organizations this year and with three MLB teams. Diamondbacks just signed James McCann to a one-year deal. Marlins just released former Mets legend Albert Almora. Adrian Houser signed a deal with the White Sox. Ben Gamel signed with the Angels. Ali Sanchez, who played for the Mets in the blur of a year that was 2020, signed with the Jay Blues. Billy McKinney signed with the Rangers. J.D. Davis signed with the Angels. Michael Perez, another catcher you might've forgotten was once a Met, was released by the Diamondbacks. Trevor Gott was released by Seattle. Jorge Lopez was released by Washington. Kevin Pillar was released by Texas. Jake Diekman retired.