The Mets have announced that outfielder Rick Ankiel has been designated for assignment in order to create roster space for fellow outfielder Kirk Nieuwenhuis. Ankiel hit .182 in 71 plate appearances with the Mets. He was signed to a major league deal with the Mets back in May after being released by the Houston Astros. Nieuwenhuis hit .232 with 10 home runs for Triple-A Las Vegas this season.
This is the right move because Ankiel was really struggling, and had no long-term spot on this roster. Ankiel didn't pose much of a threat with the bat, striking out 25 times in 66 at-bats. When the Mets first brought him in, I knew Ankiel wasn't much of a hitter but I believed he would provide solid defense. His defense is most likely what kept him from not being designated for assignment earlier.
As for Nieuwenhuis, I am not a fan of him, but at this point what do the Mets have to lose? I'd much rather have Kirk go out there and get playing time than Rick Ankiel. However, I wonder if they are going to stick him in center or right field. I'd much rather see Juan Lagares in center field, and it makes sense to put Kirk in right field due to Marlon Byrd's struggles.
No comments:
Post a Comment