Mets Morning News: Mets add to their bullpen, Michael Conforto close to swinging a bat

Meet the Mets

The Mets have reportedly signed reliever Anthony Swarzak to a two-year deal worth $14 million.

Swarzak is coming off a great year with both the White Sox and Brewers where he saw an uptick in velocity on his pitches.

Michael Conforto has not yet begun to swing a bat but he is hopeful that will change shortly as his shoulder continues to heal from surgery. Despite his status, and the lack of moves this offseason, Conforto still believes they can contend next season.

Of course with this team their success is dependent on the health of their pitchers including Matt Harvey.

One addition the Mets did make was of course at the manager position, and the man Mickey Callaway used to work beside believes the Mets are in good hands under Callaway.

The Mets did try to improve their second base situation, but they were unable to acquire Ian Kinsler who was instead traded to the Angels.

After making some intriguing decisions at the beginning of the offseason, the Mets have stagnated and are refusing to go after any of the top free agents. Instead of hanging around mediocrity, why won’t they do a full-scale rebuild?

Around the National League East

Marcell Ozuna was the next one traded in the Marlins’ fire sale. He was acquired by the Cardinals in exchange for some of St. Louis’s top prospects. Miami also released pitcher Edinson Volquez to make room on the 40-man roster. Unfortunately for Christian Yelich he is most likely not going anywhere.

The Phillies are one of several teams that have submitted an offer for Orioles’ third baseman Manny Machado.

The Nationals have reportedly signed reliever Brandon Kintzler to a two-year deal. They have also had a preliminary discussion about a possible extension for Bryce Harper.

Around Major League Baseball

The Mariners signed pitcher Juan Nicasio to a two-year deal worth $17 million.

The Astros have reportedly signed reliever Joe Smith for two-years.

The Cardinals traded outfielder Stephen Piscotty to the Athletics.

The Rangers, Yankees, and Phillies have expressed interest in acquiring Diamondbacks’ ace Zack Greinke.

Bob Costas will be inducted into Cooperstown next summer as the recipient of the Ford C. Frick Award.

Yesterday at Amazin’ Avenue

Steve Sypa looked ahead to the Rule 5 Draft and the available starters and relievers.

Brian Salvatore wrote about the Swarzak signing.

This Date in Mets History

The Mets signed outfielder Lance Johnson on this date in 1995.