The San Diego Padres have lost outfielder José Azocar to the New York Mets, who picked him up off waivers. This move follows the Padres’ decision to designate Azocar for assignment earlier this week when Fernando Tatis Jr. was added back to their 40-man roster.
Jose Azócar had been claimed by the Mets.
— Jeff Sanders (@sdutSanders) September 5, 2024
After claiming Azocar, the Mets assigned him to their Triple-A affiliate, Syracuse. To accommodate this, they moved right-handed pitcher Sean Reid-Foley to the 60-day injured list. Azocar, known for his defensive skills and speed—ranking in the 91st percentile in sprint speed—has a career OPS+ of 74.
Azocar joined the Padres in 2020 on a minor league deal and made his major league debut on April 7, 2022. He has consistently played in at least 50 games in each of the last two seasons.
With Tatis Jr.’s return from injury, the Padres had to adjust their outfield lineup. Azocar, who had started 81 games as the most frequently used right fielder for the team, was sent back to Triple-A El Paso on June 22 to clear a roster spot.
Now with the Mets, Azocar enters an already competitive outfield featuring Harrison Bader, Starling Marte, and Brandon Nimmo. As the Mets, currently second in the National League East, push for a playoff berth, Azocar may get a chance to contribute at the major league level.
This season is Azocar’s final option year, meaning he will no longer have the flexibility to move freely between the majors and minors in the future.
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