New York Mets' deadline acquisitions fit a similar theme

Newly-acquired New York Mets hitter Daniel Vogelbach Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

The New York Mets' moves at the trade deadline have one central theme: platoon help

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports | By Larry Brown | Last updated 8/4/22

The New York Mets did not seem to do a whole lot ahead of Tuesday’s MLB non-waiver trade deadline. But a closer look at their moves reveals their acquisitions carry a similar theme.

The Mets acquired Daniel Vogelbach, Tyler Naquin and Darin Ruf ahead of this year’s deadline. Neither of these players have stats that would blow you away. But looking at their respective splits, that’s where the value is notable.

Vogelbach is batting just .236 with a .790 OPS this season. He has a .415 OPS against lefties. However, the left-handed hitter has a .918 OPS against right-handers.

Ruf is batting .216 with a .701 OPS this season. Against right-handers, he has a .570 OPS. However, he has an .886 OPS against lefties this season.

Vogelbach and Ruf can form quite a platoon at DH, with Vogelbach crushing right-handed pitchers, and Ruf destroying lefties.

Mets have acquired Vogelbach and Ruf to platoon at DH and these are splits that they will get ABs at:

Vogelbach vs righties: .274 AVG, .385 OBP, .922 OPS, 12 HR, 27 RBI, 156 wRC+

Ruf vs lefties: .257 AVG, .364 OBP, .896 OPS, 9 HR, 24 RBI, 151 wRC+

— NYM Stats (@nym_stats) August 3, 2022

Naquin is batting .249 with a .752 OPS this season. He has a .518 OPS against lefties and .819 OPS against right-handers.

Naquin and Mark Canha wouldn’t form quite such a complementary tandem in left since both are better at hitting right-handed pitchers. However, Naquin is another nice DH and outfield option to have against right-handed pitchers.

Not only did the Mets add three players who are strong platoon players, but they also got Jacob deGrom back this week. His return to the team will likely be the best addition of all.

The Mets seem to be well set up for a playoff run this season.

This article first appeared on Larry Brown Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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