On Wednesday, Jesse Winker shone with the Tampa Bay Rays, while Paul Blackburn has been a reliable performer in the rotation. Phil Maton has also been a valuable addition since arriving in Queens.
The Mets’ trade deadline moves have generally had a positive effect on the team, but one particular deal has yet to make a major league impact. In a less-publicized trade with the Tampa Bay Rays, David Stearns acquired Tyler Zuber in exchange for Paul Gervase. Up to now, Zuber has stayed in the minors. With Dedniel Nunez nearing his return and Sean Reid-Foley expected back soon, this relatively unnoticed trade may not have significant long-term implications.
What has Tyler Zuber been doing in the minors for the Mets?
Zuber, assigned to Triple-A Syracuse, has pitched 6 innings with a 3.00 ERA. This performance is only marginally better than his time with the Long Island Ducks before being acquired by the Rays. His statistics reveal some inconsistency, including a strikeout and a walk per inning, and he has had issues with control. Earlier this year with Durham, he averaged 2.5 walks per 9 innings, and his most recent outing, which included 3 walks in 3 innings, suggests ongoing control problems.
The Rays have made some savvy moves at the trade deadline, such as acquiring Huascar Brazoban, who has extended control and minor league options beyond 2024. Blackburn’s arbitration status for next season also adds value beyond a short-term rental.
Zuber’s situation is different. The Rays have already used his final minor league option this year, meaning if they want to keep him beyond 2024, he must be on the 26-man roster or face the risk of being waived.
Zuber’s usage in the minors has been somewhat peculiar. Four of his eight appearances lasted less than an inning, not due to performance issues. This raises questions about whether the Rays intended to promote him quickly. If so, his recent outing of 29 pitches after several shorter stints is unusual. With no pressing need for Zuber in the majors and limited better options on the 40-man roster, September could bring a change, but for now, his future with the team remains in question.
