The Mets have made a key move to fill their shortstop position by calling up Vidal Brujan ahead of their game against the Angels. To make room for him, first baseman Eric Wagaman has been designated for assignment. Infielder Ronny Mauricio, who was set to step into a regular role, is now on the 10-day injured list due to a fractured thumb.
Brujan, 28, had a rocky offseason after being designated for assignment by both the Twins and the Braves. He had a brief stint with the Mets earlier this season but didn’t make the Opening Day roster. While with Triple-A Syracuse, he recorded a 62 wRC+ over 24 games.
Once a promising prospect for the Rays, Brujan debuted in the majors in 2021. However, during his time in Tampa Bay, he primarily showcased his defensive skills and speed, with inconsistent batting performance. After being traded to the Marlins in late 2023, he got a longer opportunity in the majors but posted a .222 batting average with a .319 slugging percentage in 278 plate appearances in 2024.
Brujan brings versatility, having played all four infield positions and all three outfield spots. His defensive skills shine at shortstop, where he has accrued 4 Defensive Runs Saved in about 363 innings. He’s stepping in now as the Mets are missing their star shortstop, Francisco Lindor, due to a calf injury.
For Mauricio, this is a setback. He was starting to establish himself in the big leagues, even hitting his first home run of the season shortly before his injury. Manager Carlos Mendoza announced that Mauricio is expected to be out for 6-8 weeks, a tough break for a player trying to build momentum.
In the interim, Bo Bichette has shifted over to shortstop, backed by Brett Baty at third base. Bichette has some experience at shortstop, having played 17 innings there this season.
As for Wagaman, he had a brief stint after being picked up from the Twins but will now look for a new opportunity after his assignment. In his last full season with the Marlins, he struggled, holding an underwhelming 85 wRC+ with negative defensive metrics.
In the world of baseball, injuries can shift the course of a team’s season. The Mets are navigating a challenging stretch, looking to fill holes while key players recover. Fans will be keeping a close eye on how this roster reshaping impacts their performance as the season progresses.
Image credits to Sam Navarro, Imagn Images
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