The New York Mets recently announced the acquisition of right-handed relief pitcher Yohan Ramirez from the Chicago White Sox for $100,000. With the deal, the Mets are aiming to address the issue with their bullpen that contributed to their failure to meet high expectations in the previous season.
One of the major setbacks for the Mets was the loss of star closer Edwin Diaz, who was sidelined for the entire year due to a torn patellar tendon suffered during the World Baseball Classic last March. To further support their farm system, the team had also decided to part ways with their top bullpen arm, David Robertson, at the trade deadline.
Ramirez, who lacks minor league options, has been added to the 40-man roster. He joins the ranks of new bullpen additions, including Austin Adams, Michael Tonkin and Jorge Lopez.
Making his debut with the Seattle Mariners in 2020, the pitcher showcased impressive strikeout capabilities but struggled with control and was susceptible to home runs. Following a brief stint with the Mariners, he found himself with the Guardians and later the Pittsburgh Pirates.
During his time with the Pirates, Ramirez pitched in 26 games. He accumulated a 3.67 ERA, a 1.398 WHIP, 31 strikeouts, and 14 walks over 34.1 innings. Later, the White Sox claimed Ramirez off waivers in September. He posted a 9.00 ERA, a 2.000 WHIP, four strikeouts, and three walks in 4.0 innings during the five games with Chicago.
Initially known for his 4-seam fastball-slider combination, Ramirez has evolved into a sinker-sweeper pitcher. Analysis of his Statcast page suggests potential adjustments in his pitch selection to enhance his effectiveness.
Ramirez currently holds a career ERA of 3.99 in 102 games, a WHIP of 1.347, 128 strikeouts, and 69 walks. The Mets hope that strategic use of his breaking pitches will transform Ramirez into a reliable middle reliever, reflecting on the multiple waivers and DFAs he experienced in the past three seasons.
As the Mets continue to work on shoring up their bullpen before spring training, there is speculation that the team may pursue All-Star reliever Josh Hader. However, the potential acquisition of Hader could come at a significant cost, as he is seeking a contract surpassing Diaz's $102 million deal, according to reports.
White Sox's offseason moves
Meanwhile, the Chicago White Sox has been undergoing major changes this offseason, both in leadership and on the field.
The departure of executive vice president Kenny Williams and general manager Rick Hahn signalled a new era for the team. Chris Getz, who previously served as the assistant general manager for the White Sox, stepped in to replace both positions in August.
Under Getz's leadership, the White Sox have embarked on an ambitious plan to retool their roster, making strategic moves to enhance their competitiveness in the upcoming MLB season.
One of the most substantial transactions of the offseason involved trading relief pitcher Aaron Bummer to the Atlanta Braves. In return, the White Sox acquired Michael Soroka, Jared Shuster, Nicky Lopez, Braden Shewmake and Riley Gowens.
Adding to their offseason headlines, the White Sox also signed Erick Fedde from the Korea Baseball Organization. Fedde was the first-round draft pick by the Washington Nationals in 2014. The 30-year-old right-hander finalised a two-year, $15 million deal with the team last week.
While he faced a non-tender in 2022, Fedde expressed eagerness and determination to return to the Major Leagues.
