NEW YORK — Right-hander Ryne Stanek was acquired by the Mets from the Seattle Mariners for minor league outfielder Rhylan Thomas on Friday night in a move by New York to bolster its bullpen.
Stanek, who turned 33 Friday, was 6-3 with a 4.38 ERA and seven saves in 46 relief appearances for the Mariners but struggled over his last nine outings, going 1-2 with a 6.45 ERA and two blown saves. He was dealt hours after Seattle acquired Yimi García from Toronto.
The eight-year veteran has 11 saves and has averaged 10.5 strikeouts per nine innings for the Mariners, Tampa Bay Rays, Miami Marlins and Houston Astros. He won a World Series ring with the Astros in 2022 and has a 2.70 ERA in 23 postseason appearances.
“He’s got that ability to come in late in games,” Mets manager Carlos Mendoza said. “He’s a power arm. He’s 97-98 (mph), there’s a splitter. I’ve seen it a lot. I’m glad he’s on my side now.”
Stanek receives a $250,000 assignment bonus because of the trade, in addition to his $4 million salary. He would earn $250,000 bonuses for pitching in 50, 60 and 70 games.
Mets pitchers Drew Smith and Brooks Raley are out for the season after Tommy John surgery while emerging rookie right-hander Dedniel Núñez was put on the 15-day injured list Friday with a right pronator strain. Right-handers Sean Reid-Foley (right shoulder) and Reed Garrett (right elbow) also are sidelined.
“He's definitely going to help us,” Mets designated hitter J.D. Martinez said. “We’re excited to add a piece here.”
New York acquired right-hander Phil Maton from Tampa Bay on July 9.
Thomas, 24, was selected by the Mets in the 11th round of the 2022 amateur draft. He was batting .265 with five homers, 31 RBIs and 11 steals in 74 games at Double-A Binghamton and Triple-A Syracuse.