From making his MLB debut in April 2021 to now being on his third team in two years, Sam Clay’s journey has been a rocky one. Now, however, he may have finally found a chance to become a staple in a depleted Mets bullpen.
Moving on from Sam Clay
The 29-year-old southpaw pitched in 58 games for the Nationals last year and only appeared in six games this season posting a 10.38 ERA in only 4.1 IP. This showing was all the reason needed to designate him for assignment on July 1.
Four days later, his luck would seem to turn around when Philadelphia and the City of Brotherly Love came calling. With no appearances made and not even one chance given to the lefty, the Fightins decided to put him on waivers on July 8.
The division-rival Mets took notice of this and claimed the reliever off waivers on July 10. This addition comes after they said farewell to Chasen Shreve who was placed on waivers after originally being designated for assignment. In an equal move, righty-reliever Jake Reed was designated for assignment to make room for Clay on the active roster. This acquisition could also aid New York in trade talks with the Aug. 2 deadline approaching.
The 2014 fourth-round pick’s eight-year minor league career saw him post a 3.90 ERA in 432.0 IP with 459 Ks and 187 ER. This consistency has, so far, not carried over in his major league outings as he currently owns a 6.02 ERA in only 64 games played. With fellow Mets relievers Trevor May on the IL until July 25 and John Curtiss missing the entire season, Clay will have the opportunity to bounce back and aid his new team in various roles/situations.
The Phillies won’t see the Mets again until August 12 when they begin a three-game set at Citi Field. Only time will tell if this reliever will remain in the Big Apple or find another home somewhere else.
Photo by Andy Lewis/Icon Sportswire
