The New York Mets were bound to lose recently designated outfielder Alexander Canario to another team. His impressive spring training and enticing power bat made it inevitable that he’d be claimed off waivers. For struggling teams, there was little to lose by taking a chance on him. However, as the season progresses, it’s not just rebuilding teams like the Chicago White Sox that will be looking to add talent—contending teams may also try to scoop up overlooked players.
Fortunately for the Mets, they won’t have to worry about Canario haunting them, as he was officially traded to the Pittsburgh Pirates for cash considerations.
After being swept by the Miami Marlins in walk-off fashion, the Pirates will now have the chance to incorporate Canario into their outfield mix. It’s likely they had interest in him all along, but with the Chicago Cubs preferring to move him out of the NL Central, a trade to the Mets became the more viable option.
Mets fans saw flashes of promise from Canario late in the spring, but now he joins a Pirates roster where he won’t have a clear everyday role. However, he could provide occasional rest for veteran Andrew McCutchen at DH or step in for starting left fielder and leadoff hitter Tommy Pham. At 38 and 37, respectively, both outfielders could benefit from having another right-handed bat to ease their workload.
The hope is that Canario’s time in Pittsburgh isn’t short-lived, especially with the Atlanta Braves suddenly needing outfield help following Jurickson Profar’s 80-game suspension. Without minor league options, Canario remains a fringe roster piece, but at just 24 years old, he still has potential. The good news for Mets fans? He won’t be a direct threat within the division or likely in the Wild Card race.
Pittsburgh is set to visit Citi Field on May 12, giving Canario a realistic shot to remain on the roster at least until then. If his spring performance was any indicator, the Pirates will need to take the strikeouts in stride and enjoy the power—no, not the soda.