In a somewhat surprising turn of events, the New York Mets decided to carry top prospect Andres Gimenez in the active 30-man roster from the start of the season, according to Anthony DiComo of MLB.com.
By waiting to call Gimenez up for another week or so, the New York Mets would have gained an extra year of team control on the talented infielder, but they decided against the idea and he will be available for manager Luis Rojas in the season’s first series against the Atlanta Braves, starting tomorrow.
The decision is somewhat surprising, in addition, because Gimenez isn’t up to be a regular. He plays mostly shortstop, and that spot is occupied by Amed Rosario. Robinson Cano and Jeff McNeil play second and third, respectively, and Gimenez fits in the bench for now.
The Mets are going all in
Mets general manager Brodie Van Wagenen explained the decision to put Giménez on the Opening Day roster to SNY.tv, saying that “we made the commitment that we’re going to try to win every single game…it’s as simple as that, put the best team on the field that we can any given day.”
The Mets like what Gimenez can offer from a defensive and baserunning standpoint, and his bat has advanced, as well.
Luis Guillorme and Eduardo Nunez also made the roster as backup middle infielders. Here are the 30 men that the Mets will count on for now:
Catchers: Wilson Ramos, Tomás Nido, René Rivera
First basemen: Pete Alonso, Dominic Smith
Second basemen: Robinson Canó, Eduardo Núñez, Luis Guillorme
Shortstops: Amed Rosario, Andrés Giménez
Third basemen: Jeff McNeil
Outfielders: Michael Conforto, Brandon Nimmo, Yoenis Céspedes, J.D. Davis, Jake Marisnick
Starting pitchers: Jacob deGrom, Steven Matz, Rick Porcello, Michael Wacha, Corey Oswalt
Relievers: Edwin DÃaz, Seth Lugo, Dellin Betances, Jeurys Familia, Justin Wilson, Hunter Strickland, Drew Smith, Chasen Shreve, Paul Sewald