The New York Mets have gone long stretches without important contributors throughout the 2024 season, notably Starling Marte, who had been sidelined since June 22 with a right knee bone bruise until Sunday. With Marte healthy again, the Mets designated a veteran outfielder for assignment to make place for the Dominican native.
The Mets have designated Ben Gamel for assignment
According to Tim Healey of Newsday, the Mets have designated Ben Gamel for assignment to make room on the active roster for Marte.
Gamel joined the Mets organization this offseason on a minor league contract and started the season at Triple-A Syracuse due to a congested outfield. The 32-year-old took most of his opportunity, hitting.314/.423/.539 in 45 games, with seven home runs and 24 RBIs.
The Florida native was then called up to replace Marte but struggled to get consistent playing time. Gamel participated in 18 games, hitting.217/.400/.261 over 30 plate appearances with no home runs or RBIs.
What does this mean for the Mets?
Gamel will now be placed on waivers and has a good chance of being picked up with the trade deadline well behind him. If the 32-year-old goes unclaimed, he has the option of entering free agency or remaining as non-roster outfield depth and returning to Triple-A Syracuse. However, that seems like an uncommon occurrence.
With Gamel gone, the Blue and Orange will be short on outfield depth again, and president of baseball operations David Stearns will most likely be active on the waiver wire in the coming days.
Should one outfielder be hurt in the meantime, the Mets have several serviceable options in Triple-A, including Eddie Rosario, DJ Stewart, and Jackie Bradley Jr. waiting in the wings. Time will tell, however, who will get the call-up in that situation.
