Rookie Nick Morabito Inspired by Benge and Ewing's Success as Mets Call Him Up ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Nick Morabito, a 23-year-old rookie outfielder, found renewed motivation as the New York Mets called him up to the majors for the second time this season. The call-up came on the first day of expanded September rosters, marking a significant step in his professional journey. Morabito, who had previously spent time with the Mets earlier in the season, now faces the challenge of proving himself in the big leagues while drawing inspiration from two fellow rookies, Carson Benge and A.J. Ewing, who have established themselves as key contributors for the team. Morabito’s call-up coincided with a pivotal moment in the Mets’ outfield rotation. Benge, a rookie who has emerged as a National Rookie of the Year candidate, and Ewing, the starting center fielder, have become integral to the team’s future. Their success has provided Morabito with a blueprint for his own development. “It’s super cool and comforting,” Morabito said after the Mets’ 6-2 loss to the Tampa Bay Rays on September 1, 2026. “I played with those guys in the minor leagues and I’m tight with them. To see their success … I am hoping just to bring more of it here.” The 2022 second-round draft pick, ranked as the Mets’ No. 13 prospect by MLB Pipeline, brings a skill set similar to Benge and Ewing. Known for his athleticism, defensive prowess, and baserunning, Morabito has consistently contributed in the field, even if his offensive production has been inconsistent. During his time with Triple-A Syracuse, he posted a .254/.355/.388 slash line with 13 home runs and 42 stolen bases over 114 games.#new_york_mets #carson_benge #tampa_bay_rays #nick_morabito #aj_ewing
Orioles Claim Luis Robert Jr. Off Waivers From Mets The Baltimore Orioles have claimed outfielder Luis Robert Jr. off waivers from the New York Mets, according to reports from multiple sports outlets. The transaction was announced after the Mets placed Robert on waivers earlier in the season, with the Orioles securing his rights despite having a full 40-man roster. To finalize the move, Baltimore will need to make a corresponding roster adjustment, likely involving a trade or release of another player. Robert, a former All-Star with five-tool potential, joins the Orioles for the remainder of the 2024 season. He is under contract for $20 million this year, with approximately $2.99 million remaining to be paid. The Orioles will assume the full amount of his salary, relieving the Mets of the associated 110% luxury tax burden. The Mets are expected to save around $6.29 million on the transaction, excluding the $2 million buyout on next year’s $20 million club option, which the Orioles will also cover. Despite his talent, Robert has struggled this season, posting a .233/.303/.399 batting line (approximately 4% below league average by wRC+). He has hit 10 home runs in 218 plate appearances and played solid center field, but his baserunning has declined significantly. Robert has only recorded two steals this season and has been caught three times. While his sprint speed remains in the 89th percentile for major leaguers, his overall athleticism has not translated to consistent performance. Robert’s recent return from a monthlong injury absence due to a herniated disc in his spine has shown some improvement. Since coming back from the injured list, he has hit .222 with a .283 on-base percentage in 120 plate appearances, but he has hit eight of his 10 home runs in that span, producing a .454 slugging percentage.#new_york_mets #2024_season #baltimore_orioles #luis_robert_jr #nick_morabito
