The Mets have made a surprising move by acquiring Joey Gerber from the Rays in a cash-only trade. This move raises questions about the team's strategy and the potential impact of Gerber's injury history. But here's where it gets controversial... Is this a calculated risk or a gamble? Let's dive into the details and explore the possibilities.
Joey Gerber, a 28-year-old right-handed pitcher, has had a career filled with twists and turns. Originally drafted by the Seattle Mariners in 2018, Gerber made his MLB debut in 2020 with the Mariners, posting a 4.02 ERA in 15.2 innings during the COVID-shortened season. However, his journey has been far from smooth.
Gerber suffered a back injury in 2021, which required surgery and caused him to miss the entire season. He began the 2022 season on the sidelines, was released by the Mariners, and eventually signed with the Yankees. Gerber had a strong season in the Yankees' minor league system in 2022, but his time with the Yankees was cut short due to back and forearm injuries.
Prior to the 2025 season, Gerber signed a minor league deal with the Rays and struggled in Triple-A, posting a 6.09 ERA in 44.1 innings. Despite this, he managed to make it back to the Major Leagues, pitching in two games for the Rays last year.
For the Mets, Gerber represents another no-risk lottery ticket for their bullpen, which is in flux as the offseason approaches. With his history of injuries and mixed performances in the minor leagues, the question remains: Can the Mets turn Gerber into a reliable reliever for next season? The answer lies in the team's strategy and Gerber's ability to overcome his injury history.
Stay tuned as we explore the possibilities and discuss the potential impact of this move on the Mets' roster. And don't forget to share your thoughts in the comments! Do you think the Mets have made a smart move with this acquisition? Or is it a gamble that could backfire?
