Mets Promote Nick Morabito as Austin Slater DFA'd

The Mets are set to promote outfield prospect Nick Morabito for his major league debut, according to The Athletic's Will Sammon. The move follows the Designated for Assignment of veteran outfielder Austin Slater, freeing up a 26-man roster spot for the 23-year-old rookie.

Morabito was selected with the 75th overall pick in the 2022 draft and entered the season ranked between 10th and 20th in Mets farmhand rankings. In his first experience in Triple-A, Morabito has hit .253/.364/.390 over 175 plate appearances. He has drawn walks at a 12% rate, struck out in 22.9% of his trips to the plate, and hit four home runs while stealing bases at an impressive 87.5% success rate.

Despite his four homers in Triple-A, Morabito is not expected to be a power threat in the majors. Scouts rate his raw power as below average, but his speed and defensive versatility stand out. He is considered a plus runner and can play all three outfield positions at an above-average level.

The Mets’ outfield has become increasingly crowded with the emergence of two other rookies. Carson Benge has been heating up at the plate recently, while A.J. Ewing has shown promise since his promotion last week. Juan Soto, who started the season as the team's everyday left fielder, has spent more time at designated hitter due to forearm and ankle injuries. Soto fouled a ball off his right foot last week, prompting a shift in his playing time.

The increased use of Soto as a DH and the DFA of Slater open the door for Morabito to see regular playing time. The Mets’ emphasis on youth has also reduced the role of MJ Melendez, a former top Royals prospect who has struggled recently. Melendez hit .345/.406/.655 in his first 33 plate appearances, but that was largely inflated by a .533 average on balls in play. His underlying numbers, 36.4% strikeout rate and 68% contact rate, have caught up to him.

This month Melendez is hitting just .133/.278/.200 with a 33.9% strikeout rate and is in a 1-for-20 slump. As the Mets continue to evaluate their outfield options, Morabito’s promotion could signal a shift in the team’s approach.

The Mets will face the Braves in a three-game series beginning Thursday in Atlanta. Morabito’s debut could come as early as that series.