What's Happening?
The Seattle Mariners have acquired right-handed pitcher Cooper Criswell from the New York Mets in exchange for cash. This transaction also led to the Mariners designating left-hander Jhonathan Diaz for assignment.
Criswell, who is 29 years old, played in seven games for the Boston Red Sox last season, achieving a 1-0 record with a 3.57 ERA. He was claimed off waivers by the Mets on December 5 and was designated for assignment earlier this week. Jhonathan Diaz, also 29, appeared in one game for the Mariners in 2025 and had a record of 11-6 in 27 games with Triple-A Tacoma, leading the Pacific Coast League with a 4.15 ERA.
Why It's Important?
This acquisition is significant for the Mariners as they continue to bolster their pitching staff ahead of the upcoming season. Cooper Criswell's addition provides the Mariners with a potentially reliable arm, given his previous performance with the Red Sox. The move also reflects the Mariners' strategy to strengthen their roster through strategic trades and acquisitions. For the Mets, this trade allows them to free up roster space and potentially allocate resources elsewhere. The decision to designate Jhonathan Diaz for assignment indicates the Mariners' focus on optimizing their pitching lineup, which could impact their performance in the competitive AL West division.
