A minor action that underscores the significance of cultivating relationships.
The transfer of Tyler Heineman to the Boston Red Sox won’t be remembered as one of those New York Mets trades that linger in infamy. Heineman, a journeyman catcher, was claimed off waivers this offseason and subsequently designated for assignment when the Mets needed roster space for Adam Ottavino. While in DFA limbo, the Mets traded him to the Red Sox for cash considerations.
This marks the second trade between the two clubs this offseason. In December, the Mets exchanged Rule 5 Draft pick Justin Slaten for minor leaguer Ryan Ammons. It’s a shrewd move by both teams, showcasing David Stearns’ effectiveness as a trade partner with Red Sox executive Craig Breslow.
Former adversaries from Stearns’ tenure with the Milwaukee Brewers and Breslow’s with the Chicago Cubs, the two executives weren’t accustomed to trading due to their teams’ division rivalry. However, now in different leagues, they have already struck a couple of small deals.
The Heineman trade is a smaller move compared to Stearns’ previous deal with Boston but mirrors what he recently did with Cooper Hummel, sending him to the San Francisco Giants for cash considerations as well. While the cash involved may not be significant, it allows the Red Sox and Giants to add players to their rosters without engaging in waiver battles, which the Mets previously won. Both Heineman and Hummel are optional, providing depth for their respective teams.
When Steve Cohen took over as the Mets’ majority owner, there were concerns about whether teams would be willing to trade with the organization led by the wealthiest owner in the sport. Cohen tactfully avoided flaunting his financial power in the first two years. It wasn’t until the 2023 season when he significantly increased spending. While the Mets’ budget remains higher than most teams’, they haven’t violated any unwritten rules or made moves to antagonize others.
The Mets are playing the long game in every aspect. While these small trades may appear inconsequential, Stearns’ actions are akin to holding the door open at a restaurant – gestures that other teams will remember. Surely, they would remember even more if Stearns wasn’t so generous in his dealings.
