Morning Briefing: Mets Make Two Minor League Signings

Good morning, Mets fans!

Although none of the big free agent names came off the board Monday, the Mets made two depth moves that could prove to be beneficial in 2026.

The first move was signing right-handed pitcher Robinson Martínez to a minor league deal via Mike Mayer of MMO. During this winter ball season, the 27-year-old reliever has posted a 3.52 ERA and 19 strikeouts over 15 1/3 innings. Last season as a member of the Orioles organization, Martinez posted a 4.76 ERA and 22 strikeouts over 22 2/3 innings across two levels.

The second signing was INF Christian Arroyo to a minor league deal with an invite to spring training, via Mike Puma of the NY Post. Arroyo has not seen big league action since a disappointing 2023 campaign.

Despite his lack of opportunity, Arroyo will look to return to his 2021 form, where he posted 1.5 WAR, 18 XBH and a .262/.324/.445 slash line. He was once considered a big prospect for the Giants. The overall guarantee, however, is Arroyo’s defensive versatility, having played every infield position and right field in his MLB career.

Latest Mets News

Mets owner Alex Cohen announced via her Instagram that she will no longer be posting on her account. However, she can still be reached via snail mail addressed to Citi Field.

Latest MLB News

Jon Heyman of the NY Post shared that former AL MVP and longtime manager Don Mattingly is joining the Phillies as their new bench coach. Mattingly continues his pursuit of his first World Series championship, now in a new home.

MLB Network announced a full day of programming on Jan. 7 in honor of “Shohei Day,” via Natalie Oganesyan of Deadline.com. Programming will begin at 9 a.m. ET.

The Milwaukee Brewers announced several new additions to their coaching staff. Names include former Met Daniel Vogelbach as a hitting coach, and another former Met in Jim Henderson as pitching coordinator.

Robert Murray of FanSided reported that the Nationals have claimed outfielder Joey Wiemer off waivers. Wiemer, a former top prospect with the Brewers, was most recently designated for assignment by the Giants. 

Houston Astros starter Tatsuya Imai says he won’t pitch for Team Japan in the WBC via Bob Nightengale of USA Today. Imai will instead use the time to acclimate to his new home in Houston in preparation for the 2026 MLB season. 

Ari Alexander of 7News reported that former Mets prospect Luke Ritter has agreed to a minor league deal with the Angels. Ritter spent seven seasons with the Mets, highlighted by his 50 Triple-A home runs.

Roch Kubatko of MASNsports.com announced that the Orioles claimed OF Jhonkensy Noel off waivers from the Cleveland Guardians. In a corresponding move, RHP George Soriano was designated for assignment.

Latest on MMO

The National Sports Media Association shared that MMO’s own Mojo Hill won their North Dakota Sportswriter of the Year for 2025. Congrats, Mojo!

Robert Colonna shared a story about who is in the race for Kyle Tucker.

Johnluke Chaparro profiled the free agency of Alex Bregman.

Allison Waxman discussed whether the Mets should sign Ranger Suárez or trade for Freddy Peralta.

On This Date in Mets History

2016: Mike Piazza is elected to the MLB Hall of Fame by the BBWAA. Piazza was elected alongside Ken Griffey Jr. in his fourth year on the ballot. He became the second Met ever to wear a Mets cap on his plaque, joining Tom Seaver. 

2025: The Mets announced that David Wright would have his number 5 retired and enter the Mets Hall Of Fame. Wright became the eight Met to have his jersey retired.

Born on This Date: Ed Bauta (1935), Roy Staiger (1950), Marlon Anderson (1974), Casey Fossum (1978).

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