Mets acquire Eric Young Jr. from Rockies for Collin McHugh
Collin McHugh gave up two hits and one walk and struck out nine in seven shutout inning in his major-league debut with the Mets against the Rockies at Citi Field. (Aug. 23, 2012) Credit: Getty
ATLANTA -- Once again, the Mets are taking a shot on a castoff in an effort to bolster their outfield, trading pitcher Collin McHugh to the Rockies for outfielder Eric Young Jr. Both players had recently been designated for assignment.
Young Jr., the son of a former big leaguer, was hitting just .242 with a .290 on-base percentage as the Rockies' fourth outfielder. He has also played second base.
McHugh, 25, went 0-1 with a 10.29 ERA in three games this season.
To make room on the roster, the Mets designated outfielder Colin Cowgill for assignment. The 27-year-old hit just .180 in 23 games in two stints with the Mets. He was acquired this winter in a trade with the Athletics and started in centerfield Opening Day.
The Mets also promoted outfielder Andrew Brown from Triple-A Las Vegas while technically optioning Zack Wheeler as part of a procedural move.
Earlier in the day, Justin Turner was placed on the disabled list with a strained left intercostal muscle, leaving the team in need of more position players.
He may be joined by righthander Scott Atchison, who injured his right groin while warming up to enter Tuesday night's doubleheader nightcap. He had been activated from the DL earlier in the day after more than a month with elbow inflammation.
Smith agrees
The Mets have agreed to a deal with first-round draft pick Dominic Smith, multiple sources told Newsday. A source confirmed that Smith will sign for a $2.6-million bonus, slightly below slot for the No. 11 overall pick.
The deal is expected to be made official Wednesday.
The Mets have raved about Smith's smooth lefthanded swing and his defensive ability at first base.
