Official Mets News: Just In Another Top Prospect Departs New York Mets

Mets Release RHP Jorge Lopez and C Omar Narvaez

 

The New York Mets officially released right-hander Jorge Lopez on Wednesday, six days after designating him for assignment following an incident during a game where he was ejected and threw his glove into the stands. Additionally, the Mets released catcher Omar Narvaez after designating him for assignment. Other roster moves included transferring right-hander Shintaro Fujinami (right shoulder strain) from the 15-day to the 60-day injured list, and selecting the contract of catcher Joe Hudson, transferring him to Triple-A Syracuse.

Lopez’s last appearance was on May 29 during the Mets’ 10-3 loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers, where he was ejected for arguing a check-swing call and subsequently threw his glove into the stands. When asked post-game if he regretted his actions, Lopez responded negatively and criticized the Mets, calling them “the worst team in the whole (expletive) MLB.” He later attempted to clarify on Instagram that he meant he was “the worst teammate.”

 

The Mets designated Lopez for assignment on May 30, with seven days to trade, release, or send him to the minors. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza stated that while players can be emotional and frustrated, Lopez’s actions were unacceptable. Lopez, 31, had given up home runs in his last three appearances and had a 1-2 record with a 3.76 ERA and two saves in 28 games during his first season with the Mets.

An All-Star in 2022, Lopez has a career record of 23-42 with a 5.42 ERA and 29 saves in 258 games (58 starts) for various teams, including the Milwaukee Brewers, Kansas City Royals, Baltimore Orioles, Minnesota Twins, Miami Marlins, and Mets.

Catcher Omar Narvaez, 32, was also released after being designated for assignment. Narvaez last played for the Mets on May 30 and was batting .154 (10-for-65) in 28 games. He was an All-Star in 2021 with the Milwaukee Brewers.

Joe Hudson, 33, was added to the Mets’ 40-man roster and transferred to Triple-A Syracuse. The Mets had acquired Hudson from the Chicago Cubs on April 11.