The New York Mets made yet another move and signed right-handed reliever Jared Hughes to a one year contract worth $700,000 dollars which equates for $260,000 for the 60 games. The veteran will likely be added to the player pool, which currently stands at 51.
MLB Experience
Hughes, who stands at 6-foot-7, 240 lbs, is entering his 10th season in the big leagues. He made his debut in 2011 with the Pittsburgh Pirates. Hughes spent six seasons in Pittsburgh and had three years with an ERA under 3.00.
In 2014, he had his best year, winning seven games out of the bullpen and pitching to an ERA of 1.96. He then went on to pitch a season with the Milwaukee Brewers in 2017 and then had the best season of his career with the Cincinnati Reds in 2018.
The 34-year old made 72 appearances and pitched to a sub 2.00 ERA. Hughes was thrust into the closer role where he saved seven games that year. Since then, he has pitched for the Philadelphia Phillies and signed a contract deal with the Houston Astros earlier this season.
Impact with Mets
Hughes is known around the league for his unique entrance into games as he sprints in from the bullpen. He has a quality sinker that generally sits in the low 90’s. Hughes occasionally throws a slider and splitter but is mainly a ground ball pitcher.
Hughes could likely make an impact for the Mets as they have a revamped bullpen. They signed Dellin Betances to a contract in the offseason after he missed nearly the entire 2019 season with the New York Yankees. They are also relying on Edwin Diaz and Jeurys Familia to have bounce-back seasons at the end of the bullpen. With expanded rosters, it could leave Hughes with a chance.
He will likely battle some of the younger relief pitchers such as Jacob Rhame, Tyler Bashlor, and Drew Smith for innings. Brad Brach was also re-signed in the off-season. The Mets have two weapons that can give them innings in Seth Lugo and Robert Gsellman from the right side.
Hughes will likely see time in spring training as players are arriving in New York. It is another low-risk move that the Mets are making that they hope can pay off in the shortened season.
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