The New York Mets have added another intriguing offensive option to their major-league roster, calling up Christopher Morel from Triple-A Syracuse as the club continues to reshape its lineup during an important stretch of the season.
Morel’s contract was selected ahead of New York’s series against the San Diego Padres, giving the 27-year-old another opportunity to establish himself in the majors. The move comes after an impressive run in the minors and gives the Mets another right-handed bat with experience at multiple positions.
Morel earned the promotion by producing at an impressive rate for Syracuse. He was hitting .321/.382/.716 with 12 home runs in 139 plate appearances for the Triple-A club, while also going 14-for-43 with seven homers over an 11-game stretch earlier this month.
That surge provided the Mets with a strong reason to give him another major-league opportunity, particularly as the club looks for additional offensive production. Morel has already recorded two 20-home-run seasons in the majors, giving New York a player with legitimate power potential despite his inconsistent results at times.
The Mets also appear to have a specific role in mind for Morel rather than simply adding him as another bench piece. Interim manager Andy Green said Morel is expected to start at first base against Padres left-hander Robbie Ray, giving New York a right-handed option against a difficult opposing pitcher.
Morel has experience around the diamond, including time at second base, third base and right field, so his versatility could allow the Mets to move him around depending on matchups and roster needs.
To make room for the addition, New York designated Gabriel Arias for assignment, creating a corresponding roster change as Morel returned to the major leagues.
Morel previously signed a minor-league contract with the Mets after being released by Miami, making his rapid climb from a minor-league signing to the major-league roster particularly notable.
The Mets are now betting that the production he displayed at Syracuse can translate into meaningful contributions in New York, potentially giving the club another power threat as it pushes through the final stages of the regular season.
