The New York Mets sold the rights to Yoan López to the Yomiuri Giants for $600,000. The 29 year old Cuban right-handed reliever then signed a $1.1 million deal with incentives.
While López only appeared in eight games for the Mets, he certainly left an impression. Twice, he served a suspension as he buzzed and Kyle Schwarber in separate games as retaliation for his teammates getting plunked.
His season highlight was picking up the win against the Chicago Cubs in the second game of the July 16 doubleheader. With the Mets leading 4-3 in the tenth and the bases loaded, he induced Frank Schwindel to hit into a game ending double play.
Over his eight Major League appearances, he was 1-0 with a 5.73 ERA, 1.727 WHIP, 4.1 BB/9, and an 8.2 K/9. He would also make 29 appearances for Triple-A Syracuse going 2-2 with two saves, a 5.14 ERA, 1.600 WHIP, 3.9 BB/9, and a 9.8 K/9.
With López’s deal being completed, he was officially released from the Mets roster. That created a necessary 40 man spot for Danny Mendick, who played in the Chicago Cubs organization.
There will be other 40 man moves on the way as the Mets need to clear room on the roster for Carlos Correa, and Adam Ottavino.
Mendick, 29, signed a free agent deal with the Mets. Last season, he played in 31 games for the Chicago White Soxhitting .289/.343/.443 with four doubles, a triple, three homers, and 15 RBI.
Mendick tore his ACL on June 22 of this past season. The injury led to his being non-tendered by the White Sox. Mendick still has two options remaining and is expected to start his season with Triple-A Syracuse.
In other news, the Mets and Joey Lucchesi agreed to a one year deal avoiding arbitration. Lucchesi began last season on the IL as he was rehabbing from Tommy John surgery. He made eight minor league appearances at the end of last season.
