Recent NY Mets roster moves continue to be a refreshing change of pace

The New York Mets have been in a rough patch this month. After losing the first game of the series against the Pittsburgh Pirates, the Mets are 3-11 over their last 14 games. However, the Mets are at least trying something different. Their commitment to trying younger players is a refreshing change of pace.

They recently made some roster moves prior to the first game of the series against the Pirates. Griffin Canning was placed on the 60-day IL after a ruptured achilles in his most recent start on June 26. They also sent down right-handed reliever Austin Warren and infielder Jared Young to Syracuse. 

Recalled to the major league roster was right-hander Blade Tidwell. However, it shows the Mets are more committed to trying out younger players. The Mets need something to stick, and instead of turning to older, depth players like Young or Warren, the Mets are using some of their younger players.

Ronny Mauricio also stayed on the Major League roster, even after Mark Vientos was activated, and got the start at second base. He has also been doing fairly well as of recently, racking up nine hits, two of which were home runs, since June 14th heading into the Pirates' series. Tidwell also made an appearance out of the bullpen and pitched three innings. While Mauricio got a hit and a walk, and Tidwell struggled, allowing four earned runs, including a home run, the Mets are at least giving playing time to younger players with more potential.

Young started 13 games with the Mets prior to getting optioned and struggled. He put up just a 79 wRC+ in 44 plate appearances. The Mets have deployed 31 different pitchers this season (not including position players), many of whom were depth. They currently have 14 different pitchers who have appeared in five or fewer games. Warren only made two appearances with 3.1 innings pitched prior to getting sent to Syracuse.

Even if Mauricio or Tidwell struggle, it is at least a much different approach than just using depth players to fill up the roster. These three are 25 or younger and were top prospects in the Mets' system at one point.