MLB Rumors: Ryne Stanek Traded to Mets; Mariners Get Prospect Rhylan Thomas

The New York Mets have acquired Seattle Mariners right-handed relief pitcher Ryne Stanek in exchange for minor league outfielder Rhylan Thomas, per SNY's Andy Martino.

Stanek, an eight-year veteran, has gone 6-3 with a 4.38 ERA (1.33 WHIP) in 46 appearances. He's struck out 44 batters over 39 innings. Two seasons ago, Stanek starred for the World Series champion Houston Astros, posting a 1.15 ERA. He turned 33 years old on Friday.

Thomas is the No. 30 prospect in the Mets' farm system, per MLB.com. The 24-year-old has played 74 games for Double-A Binghamton and Triple-A Syracuse this season, hitting .265 (.705 OPS) with five homers and 31 RBI.

The 54-48 Mets entered Friday just one half-game out of the top National League wild card spot, currently held by the slumping Atlanta Braves. It's been a remarkable midseason turnaround for a team that once sat 11 games below .500.

With the trade deadline on Tuesday, the time is now to improve the streaking Mets in pursuit of the playoffs. The clear place for improvement was the bullpen. New York began the day with the No. 20 bullpen ERA in the 30-team MLB (4.16 ERA).

Although Stanek has posted an ERA over 4.00 each of the last two years, he's a fantastic pitcher at his best, as evidenced by his 2022 season. He's also pitched 50 or more innings in each of his seasons (minus the pandemic-shortened 2020 campaign) since 2019 and can be a reliable arm out of the 'pen for the Mets.

Stanek has encountered troubles of late (four earned runs in his last three outings), but perhaps a fresh change of scenery is needed. He's headed to the team with the greatest vibes in the league right now as the Mets serve as the hottest squad in baseball. Now he's along for what's looking like a ride headed straight through October.