Mets Trade For Reliever Wilmer Font While Matz, Vargas Battle Injuries

The Mets acquired right-handed relief pitcher Wilmer Font in a trade Monday with the Tampa Bay Rays in exchange for a player to be named later or cash considerations.

Front, who turns 29 later this month, has appeared in 10 games this season and has a 5.79 ERA. Over his five-year major league career, he is 3-3 with a 6.51 ERA. 

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Last season, Font split time between the Dodgers, A's and Rays. He started five games for Tampa Bay in 2018.

Font should give the Mets more flexibility to handle injuries to starters Steven Matz and Jason Vargas. Font could serve as a spot starter or allow the Mets to move a reliever or two, such as Seth Lugo, Robert Gsellman or Drew Gagnon, to the rotation temporarily.

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Tests Monday morning confirmed Matz is dealing with a nerve issue in his left forearm, Heyman reported. The left-hander is expected to miss at least one start as he receives conservative treatment. 

Vargas will likely be placed on the injured list with a hamstring injury, according to SNY's Andy Martino. The injury, however, is not considered serious.

The Mets also announced that Yoenis Cespedes has been moved to the 60-day IL to make room for Font on the 40-man roster.