Mets claim ex Pirates pitcher Max Kranick off waivers in latest minor move

The Mets’ offseason of underwhelming acquisitions continued Friday, with the team claiming right hander Max Kranick off waivers from the Pirates. Pittsburgh designated Kranick for assignment after they signed Martin Perez last week. The 26 year old Kranick had Tommy John surgery in June 2022 and missed most of last season before appearing in nine minor league games at the end of the year.

He’s out of minor league options, so he’d have to clear waivers again in order for the Mets to send him down, but has shown some promise in the past. In his major league debut on June 27, 2021, Kranick pitched five perfect innings before being forced from the game due to a rain delay. To make room on the 40 man roster for Kranick, the Mets designated catcher/outfielder Cooper Hummel for assignment after claiming him off waivers from Seattle in December.

Hummel played in 10 games with the Mariners last season, all in the outfield. The Mets continue to have plenty of needs, both in the rotation and the bullpen — and the market for both is showing signs of life, although not in Queens. Jordan Hicks agreed to a four year, $44 million deal with the San Francisco Giants a day after one potential Mets’ target, Brent Suter, signed with the Cincinnati Reds.

The top free agent, Josh Hader, remains available, but the Mets haven’t shown interest. Robert Stephenson seems to be in a similar category, with lefty Matt Moore another possibility. Former Mets David Robertson and Adam Ottavino are also on the market, as is ex Yankee Wandy Peralta. Right hander John Brebbia is coming off a solid year with the Giants and is a free agent.

The Mets did make another minor acquisition Friday, with Danny Young signing a minor league deal. The 29 year old left hander missed time with a hip injury last season and appeared in eight games with Atlanta in 2023, as well as 16 games at Triple A..