The New York Mets are making roster adjustments as they prepare for a crucial stretch of the season. On September 1st, major league rosters expand to 28 players, and the Mets are reportedly set to call up right-handed pitcher Justin Hagenman and right-handed outfielder Nick Morabito. This move comes as the team looks to bolster its lineup and pitching staff heading into the final weeks of the regular season.
Justin Hagenman is scheduled to take the mound on Wednesday against the Tampa Bay Rays. This start is significant as it allows the Mets to provide an extra day of rest to their young pitching trio, consisting of Christian Scott, Nolan McLean, and Zac Thornton, before they face the San Francisco Giants over the weekend. Hagenman’s return is particularly noteworthy as he has been sidelined for most of the season due to a fractured rib sustained during spring training.
In 2025, Hagenman made nine appearances for the Mets, including one start, but struggled with a 4.48 ERA over 23.2 innings pitched. His performance was hampered by injury, and Wednesday's outing will mark only his fourth game of the 2026 season. Prior to this call-up, he made one rehab start each with St. Lucie, Binghamton, and Syracuse, although he faced challenges, giving up home runs in two of those outings.
According to Mets broadcaster Gary Cohen, Hagenman has not been guaranteed any future starts beyond Wednesday, which adds an element of urgency for the pitcher to perform well in his return to the big leagues. The Mets will be looking for a strong showing from him as they navigate the final stretch of the season.
Joining Hagenman is Nick Morabito, who has had a limited role with the Mets this season. The outfielder appeared in five games earlier in the year but struggled to find his footing, going hitless in 11 plate appearances. However, Morabito has shown promise at Triple-A Syracuse, where he posted a .254 batting average along with a .355 on-base percentage and .388 slugging percentage, including 13 home runs and an impressive 42 stolen bases. His speed and power could provide a valuable asset to the Mets as they look to solidify their playoff positioning.
As the Mets gear up for their matchup against the Rays, the addition of Hagenman and Morabito could be pivotal. The team is in a competitive race for a playoff spot, and every game counts as they strive to secure their place in the postseason. The upcoming series against Tampa Bay will be a test of the Mets' depth and resilience, especially with the added pressure of roster changes and the need for key players to step up.
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