Jul 6, 2026; Cumberland, Georgia, USA; New York Mets pitcher Luke Weaver (30) pitches the ball against the Atlanta Braves during the tenth inning at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Godfree-Imagn Images
The Mets got another deal involving a reliever over the finish line less than three hours before the MLB trade deadline on Monday by sending right-hander Luke Weaver to the Pirates.
Pittsburgh’s No. 9-ranked prospect, shortstop Sammy Stafura, is going back to New York in the deal. The 21-year-old is mashing in High-A ball this season, slashing .301/.365/.656 (1.021 OPS) with 19 home runs and 51 RBI in 47 games.
The Pirates are one of the biggest surprises in baseball this season, as the small-market club is flirting with its first season at or over .500 since 2018. They have not made the postseason since 2015 and have not seen the NLDS since 2013.
Entering Monday’s action, they sit at 56-57, just 3.5 games out of the final National League Wild Card spot.
But the bullpen has been a liability. They have lost 24 games this season and have converted just 21 of 41 save opportunities. Their 4.38 ERA ranks 22nd in the majors.
Weaver certainly provides the late-inning presence that the NL Central club has been desperate for. In his first season with the Mets after two-plus seasons in the Bronx, the 32-year-old has a 1.84 ERA and a 0.818 WHIP. He has allowed just one earned run over his last 30 appearances (32 innings pitched).
Weaver was the third Mets’ reliever dealt on Monday, joining Huascar Brazoban (White Sox) and Brooks Raley (Phillies). AJ Minter was sent to the Minnesota Twins for prospects late Thursday night.
For more on Luke Weaver and the Mets, visit AMNY.com
