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MLB rumors: 5 prospects who can help the Mets in 2019

By William Schneiderhan

PORT ST. LUCIE, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 21: Andres Gimenez #72 of the New York Mets poses for a photo on Photo Day at First Data Field on February 21, 2019 in Port St. Lucie, Florida. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
PORT ST. LUCIE, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 21: Andres Gimenez #72 of the New York Mets poses for a photo on Photo Day at First Data Field on February 21, 2019 in Port St. Lucie, Florida. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /
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PORT ST. LUCIE, FLORIDA – FEBRUARY 21: Ryder Ryan #84 of the New York Mets poses for a photo on Photo Day at First Data Field on February 21, 2019 in Port St. Lucie, Florida. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
PORT ST. LUCIE, FLORIDA – FEBRUARY 21: Ryder Ryan #84 of the New York Mets poses for a photo on Photo Day at First Data Field on February 21, 2019 in Port St. Lucie, Florida. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /

5. Ryder Ryan, RHP

The Mets and then-general manager Sandy Alderson decided it was time to fire-sale and trade off any Major League asset they had in 2017. One of those players that was sent packing was outfielder, and current Seattle Mariner, Jay Bruce.

The return was underwhelming to some, as the Cleveland Indians sent right-handed pitcher Ryder Ryan back in exchange for the slugging outfielder. Now, Ryan appears to have a legitimate chance to pitch in the Majors this season.

How would Ryan help? As a bullpen arm either mid-season, or around September when clubs across the league call up a slew of players when the rosters expand.

Ryan fits the profile of a typical relief pitcher. According to mlb.com, he has a plus-fastball that sits around 95 to 96 mph, but it can also reach the high 90s. He plays off that fastball with a steady slider, making him a prototypical two-pitch, bullpen arm.

Last season, Ryan struggled a bit in Double-A, but he thrived in St.Lucie, playing in the A+ rank. This season, back in Double-A, he has pitched to a 5.68 ERA in 6.1 innings pitched.

Ryan could end up being one of those middle-relief, swing arms that so many teams use in today’s brand of baseball. With Robert Gsellman and Seth Lugo working through early-season struggles, Ryan could be another option for Mickey Callaway to use over those two as the season rolls on.

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