Mets Claim Former Top Pitching Prospect Off Waivers

The New York Mets have added a reliever to the mix, as they try to recover from the devastating loss of closer Edwin Diaz. This move won't directly address that void, but it does add some depth to the relief core. 

Mets have claimed right-handed Dennis Santana off waivers from the Twins.

Average fastball 96.7 mph last year and had 3.89 xERA in 58 2/3 big league innings.

pic.twitter.com/i2ANVZUrWY

— Michael Mayer (@mikemayer22) March 17, 2023

New York has claimed right-hander Dennis Santana off waivers from the Minnesota Twins. The 26-year-old was once a top pitcher in the Los Angeles Dodgers' system, but he's never quite lived up to the billing in the majors. 

In five seasons, he's pitched in a total of 139 innings with the Dodgers and the Texas Rangers, amassing an unimpressive 5.12 ERA with a 1.42 WHIP.  His numbers in Texas were somewhat similar in 63 appearances last season. 

But as per Mets' writer Michael Mayer, Santana actually had an expected ERA of 3.89 in '22, despite his actual 5.22 mark. In addition, his 4-seam fastball actually averaged 97.7 mph and his sinker 96.7 mph.

The Twins are the second team to try to pass Santana through waivers this year unsuccessfully, following the Atlanta Braves just three weeks ago. 

He's out of minor league options, so if the Mets can't find a spot for him in the bullpen, they, too, could try to pass him through waivers. 

Photo: Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports