Jorge López was designated for assignment by the struggling New York Mets just a day after a dramatic incident where he threw his glove into the stands following his ejection. This bold move was meant to send a clear message to the team: petulant behavior won’t be tolerated.
In his first season with the Mets, the 31-year-old López had a record of 1-2 with a 3.76 ERA and two saves in 28 appearances, making him one of the most active relievers in the league. He had signed a $2 million, one-year contract with New York in December, bringing high hopes from his impressive previous season.
Key Points:
- Dramatic Exit: López threw his glove into the stands after being ejected, a move that was intended to convey his frustrations but ultimately led to his assignment.
- Message to the Team: Mets manager Carlos Mendoza emphasized the importance of maintaining standards and addressing frustrations appropriately.
“We have standards here,” said Mets manager Carlos Mendoza before Thursday's series opener against Arizona. "When you're not playing well, guys will show emotions. There's frustrations, but there's a fine line and yesterday went over that line." Mendoza wouldn't specify if the decision was purely based on López’s behavior or his postgame comments as well.
López later apologized on his Instagram, acknowledging he might have come across as the "worst teammate in the entire league." He clarified that his comments were a result of his frustrations with his personal performance and were not meant to disparage the Mets organization.
"I don't regret it," López said when asked about the glove-throwing incident. "I think I've been looking like the worst teammate probably in the whole f---ing MLB."
After giving up a two-run homer to Shohei Ohtani in a loss to the Dodgers, López was ejected for arguing with the umpire. In his frustration, he tossed his glove into the stands, an action that underscored his emotional state.
- Instagram Apology: López addressed his comments on Instagram, apologizing to teammates, coaches, fans, and the front office, and clarified his intentions.
- Frustration and Mental Health: López had previously spent time on the injured list with the Minnesota Twins to address his mental health after similar frustrations.
New York also recalled left-handed pitcher Danny Young from Triple-A Syracuse before the series opener against Arizona. The Mets have seven days to trade or release López or assign him outright to the minors if he goes unclaimed.
Mendoza stressed that the decision to designate López for assignment was not based on his on-field performance, stating, "He was always available."
- Next Steps for López: The Mets have seven days to make a decision on López’s future, whether it be a trade, release, or minor league assignment.
- Team Dynamics: Mendoza highlighted the need for maintaining team standards and addressing behavior that crosses the line, especially in a season where the team is struggling.
The Mets, starting Thursday with a 22-33 record, held a team meeting after Wednesday's defeat, underlining the importance of unity and maintaining professional standards even in tough times.
López had a notable career before joining the Mets, pitching for three playoff teams last season with a 6-2 record, a 5.95 ERA, and three saves in 61 relief appearances. He moved to the bullpen in 2022 and became a dominant closer for the Orioles, earning an All-Star selection.
"It's just emotions. The game, it just takes you there," López said, reflecting on his actions. Despite the tumultuous end to his time with the Mets, López remains hopeful for the future, seeking strength and guidance in both his personal and professional life.
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