The Mets have signed outfielder Rick Ankiel to a major league deal. Ankiel started the season with Houston, and hit just .194 in 25 games. He also struck out 35 times in 65 plate appearances. Outfielder Andrew Brown has been sent to Triple-A Las Vegas to make room on the roster for Ankiel. The team also moved pitcher Jenrry Mejjia to the 60-day disabled list.
Ankiel has been a player on the Mets' radar for quite some time now, but at this stage in his career he really doesn't offer much. He strikes out way to often, and isn't known for his eye at the plate. The only thing he really has going for him is that he has an excellent throwing arm that could land him some playing time in center field.
GM Sandy Alderson described Ankiel as a stop-gap like player until a few of the younger players are ready later this season. However, at this point, the Mets are sitting in 4th place in the NL East, and should consider just bringing up the prospects now. It is very unlikely that Ankiel revives his career in New York, and he is clearly not part of the future with this organization. He is a nice player to have for outfield depth, but besides that he is a waste of a roster spot.
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