No matter what happens with Jacob deGrom, the Mets will need some pitching depth, and they traded for some on Friday.
The Mets acquired right-handers Elieser Hernandez and Jeff Brigham from the Marlins in exchange for minor league right-hander Franklin Sanchez, as well as a player to be named later or cash.
The Mets also claimed right-hander William Woods from the Braves.
Hernandez, 27, has a 5.04 ERA over parts of five seasons with the Marlins and the 30-year-old Brigham has pitched 24 innings for Miami.
Both were designated for assignment by the Marlins following this past season.
Hernandez started 10 of the 20 games he appeared in last season and could be used as rotation depth, while Brigham could factor in the bullpen.
They also both have minor league options remaining, so while they are on the 40-man roster, they can be sent to the minors next season.
Elieser Hernandez pitching for the Marlins on Oct. 5, 2022. Getty ImagesThe 22-year-old Sanchez is a hard-throwing, 6-foot-6 right-hander who finished last season with High-A Brooklyn.
Woods, 23, made his MLB debut with Atlanta this season, appearing in two games, after beginning the year in the rookie-level Florida Coast League.
The Mets have considerably more riding on deGrom’s potential return.
Mark Canha is among the Mets who would like deGrom to stay in Queens.
“You’d love to have a guy like Jake in the rotation,” Canha said. “I have no idea what’s gonna happen with that, but I hope we get him. He means a lot.”
Jeff Brigham pitching for the Marlins on Oct. 3, 2022. Getty ImagesCanha was in Harlem with the Amazin’ Mets Foundation, which donated more than 5,000 turkeys to those in need in communities throughout the five boroughs on Friday, including at the New York Common Pantry.
And Canha’s wish list doesn’t stop with deGrom.
It also includes Brandon Nimmo, who, like deGrom, is drawing plenty of interest this offseason as a free agent for the first time.
“He’s a phenomenal talent,” Canha said of Nimmo. “He’s a great center fielder and a great leadoff guy. I wish the best for him, but selfishly, I would like him back.”






