Daniel Vogelbach (AP Photo/Julia Nikhinson)
The New York Mets are reportedly planning to take on the contract option of designated hitter Daniel Vogelbach, as previously reported John Heyman The New York Post on Sunday.
Vogelbach’s option is worth $1.5 million, which puts him under contract through the 2023 season before hitting up unrestricted free agency next winter.
The 29-year-old lefty was acquired by the Mets from the Pittsburgh Pirates before the trade deadline in hopes of making a permanent platoon on the DH spot with Darin Roof, who was picked up from the San Francisco Giants.
This combination was not necessary as Roof struggled in Queens while Vogelbach reduced .255/.393/.436 (.830 ops) with six home runs and 25 RBI in 55 games. He went 0-for-7 during the three-game NL Wild Card Series against the San Diego Padres, which further increased New York’s need for a power-hitting DH, valid for 2023.
Opting for Vogelbach doesn’t necessarily mean that he will stay with the Mets for the next season. While the free agency period that began on Sunday provides a lengthy checklist of players for general manager Billy Appler – including the futures of Brandon Nemo and Edwin Diaz before shifting to Jacob deGrom and Chris Bassit – the team is undoubtedly going to market. will modify it. An upgrade to the DH spot.
This would allow the team to use Vogelbach in potential trade talks to address other areas of the roster.
