NY Mets calling up free agent depth piece despite being off to an abysmal start

Feb 20, 2025; Port St. Lucie, FL, USA; New York Mets relief pitcher Justin Hagenman (51) poses for a photo during picture day at Clover Park. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
Feb 20, 2025; Port St. Lucie, FL, USA; New York Mets relief pitcher Justin Hagenman (51) poses for a photo during picture day at Clover Park. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images | Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

Looking to add rotation depth, the New York Mets inked 28-year-old RHP Justin Hagenman to a split contract. This deal secured Hagenman a spot on the 40-man roster but adjusts Hagenman’s pay based on whether he is playing in the minor or major leagues. A few weeks into the season, Hagenman has done little to prove he deserves to fill the depth role he was originally signed for, but Carlos Mendoza announced Tuesday night that he is being called upon to fill in against the Twins for the sick Griffin Canning. 

Hagenman’s early-season performance in Syracuse has been poor to say the least. He has posted a 6.97 ERA and 1.84 WHIP across his first three appearances (two starts), including four home runs and a 48% hard-hit rate. He has failed to pitch five innings in any game thus far. Hagenman lasted just 2.2 innings in his most recent start allowing six hits, two walks, and four runs against Lehigh Valley. These numbers make it questionable whether he is fit for Triple-A competition, let alone against major league offenses.

The Mets likely wish they could turn to someone else, but the stars have aligned in Hagenman’s favor

Unfortunately, the late notice regarding the need for a fill-in starter limited the options that the Mets could turn to. Top prospect Brandon Sproat would be on short rest after pitching for Syracuse on Saturday, eliminating him from consideration. The same can be said for Blade Tidwell. Veteran right-hander José Ureña may be a preferred option, but he also pitched this past weekend. Hagenman on the other hand is on five days' rest after pitching on April 10th.

The handcuffed nature of the situation and Hagenman’s 40-man roster status has allowed him to get this opportunity despite his ugly start to the season. All the Mets can do now is hope that Hagenman can somehow find more success in the major leagues than he has in the minors.  A good major league debut against Minnesota has the chance to quickly change his trajectory in the Mets organization and validate the Mets bold decision to give him a split contract.

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