Longtime NY Mets prospect traded to AL contender

The New York Mets front office continues to wheel and deal even with the season in full swing. Despite them being one of the best teams in the majors, David Stearns and company are still looking for ways to maximize the success of every level of the organization. However, improving the roster doesn't always mean adding to it. In some cases, it's addition by subtraction.

This is the thought process the Mets used in their most recent trade, sending longtime farmhand Rowdey Jordan to the Houston Astros. While we do not know what the Mets will receive, it's assumed it'll be just cash. While it's a minor move, it could be beneficial for both organizations.

How both the Mets and Astros can "win" this trade

Jordan's career as a minor leaguer does not stand out. He was drafted in the 11th round of the 2021 MLB draft out of Mississippi State. Throughout his three years in the organization, he has made little progress in improving his standing. In 368 minor league games, he's slashed .229/.328/.355 with 28 home runs and 166 RBIs. He's also struck out 365 times and has drawn 178 walks.

While he has not done much in professional baseball, his collegiate career showed he had a lot of potential. Over his four years at Mississippi State he slashed .311/.393/.481 with 23 home runs, 136 RBIs, and 25 stolen bases. He was also a key contributor to Mississippi State 2021 National Championship.

This is a low-risk, high-reward move for the Astros. The hope is that they can determine what has been causing Jordan to struggle and help him return to the player he was in college. At worst, he'll provide organizational depth and become someone they can put on the bench in case one of their regular starters suffers an injury.

As for the Mets, this clears a spot on the Double-A roster. The Mets clearly felt that Jordan had reached his ceiling, or that he would never reach it. Thus, he takes up a spot that could be given to either a prospect or a young player they hope to develop. Moving Jordan allows this potential player to get more playing time at a higher level. Allowing the Mets to get a better evaluation of them.

It also opens up a spot in the organization for the Mets to add a low-risk, high-upside player. We've seen in the past the Mets make a move for a struggling player and have them turn into serviceable big leaguers. Luis Torrens is the first person many think of, a minor leaguer the Mets got for cash. With a spot open, we could see the Mets go out and grab another minor leaguer, in hopes they can have similar success that Torrens had.

While it may seem like an inconsequential move, capitalizing on them is what successful organizations do exceptionally well.