PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. — Brandon Sproat, one of the New York Mets’ most highly regarded young pitchers, looks to be closing in on his first trip to the majors following a role change at Triple-A Syracuse.
The 24-year-old right-hander, typically used as a starter, was shifted into a relief appearance on Sunday. The adjustment is widely viewed as preparation for a potential bullpen assignment in Queens, where the Mets are seeking stability as the season enters its final stretch.
Sproat has been dominant in the minors. Over his last nine outings, he’s recorded a 2.05 ERA with 57 strikeouts in 48.1 innings, while holding opponents to a 0.850 WHIP. Though his long-term future likely remains in the rotation, the Mets may want him to experience big-league pressure in shorter stints before stretching him out as a starter.
New York has already seen immediate results from promoting another top pitching prospect, Nolan McLean. In his first two starts, McLean has impressed with a 1.46 ERA and 15 strikeouts across 12.1 innings, helping solidify a rotation that had been one of the weakest in baseball earlier this season. Clay Holmes struggled after being converted to a starter, Frankie Montas was shuffled to the bullpen before landing on the injured list, and both Kodai Senga and Sean Manaea have dealt with lingering injuries.
With the Mets in the middle of a grueling 16-games-in-16-days stretch, Sproat’s arrival could provide much-needed depth, either to bolster the rotation alongside McLean or to strengthen a shaky bullpen. If he performs at the same level in the majors, president of baseball operations David Stearns may have no choice but to keep him in the big leagues through the final month.
The bullpen has been an area of concern. Ryne Stanek continues to falter with a 5.65 ERA, while Ryan Helsley, acquired at the trade deadline to set up closer Edwin Díaz, has posted a 9.82 ERA in non-save situations since arriving from St. Louis.
Whether his first opportunity comes as a starter or in relief, Sproat’s promotion seems imminent. His presence could be a decisive factor in helping the Mets stabilize their pitching staff and stay competitive down the stretch.
