Mets designate OF Abraham Almonte for assignment

The Mets announced four roster moves in between games of their doubleheader with the Braves Saturday, including the news that outfielder Abraham Almonte has been designated for assignment. 

Right-hander Denyi Reyes was optioned to Triple-A, while righty Tyson Miller was called up from Triple-A and outfielder Tim Locastro was reinstated from the 60-day injured list.

Almonte signed a minor league deal with New York during the offseason, but he didn’t make his 2023 debut until four days ago, after the Mets selected his contract to the active roster. With his appearance in the first game of the Atlanta double-header, Almonte’s tenure with the Mets could be over after four games and one hit over 12 plate appearances.

The four-game cup of coffee at least ensured an 11th consecutive MLB season for Almonte, an Immaculate Grid favorite who has seen action with eight different Major League clubs. The switch-hitter has a career .235/.302/.374 slash line over 1371 PA, as Almonte is known most for his outfield versatility than his prowess at the plate, though his glovework has allowed him to find backup or part-time roles for over a decade.

Assuming he clears waivers, Almonte has the right to elect free agency in the event an outright assignment, since he has been outrighted before in his career. The Mets could also choose to release Almonte entirely, if they prefer to use younger players down the stretch rather than keep a veteran around at Triple-A.

Locastro returns after undergoing thumb surgery in May, and his thumb injury occurred during a rehab assignment when Locastro was already on the injured list recovering from back spasms. The lengthy absence has limited Locastro to just 11 games and he looks to get some outfield work while the Mets try to fill the void left by deadline trades and Starling Marte’s IL stint.