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Mets Promote Lefty Zach Thornton for Debut vs Nationals

5/19/2026

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Summary

Thornton Debuts

The New York Mets called up left-handed prospect Zach Thornton to debut Wednesday versus the Washington Nationals.
Manager Carlos Mendoza said Thornton earned the spot because he throws strikes and matches the Nationals’ left-handed lineup.
Thornton posted a 2.25 ERA, 0.92 WHIP and 13 strikeouts in 12 Triple-A innings at Syracuse, replacing right-hander Clay Holmes, who entered the 60-day injured list with a fractured right fibula.

Summary

Mets Revamp Rotation

Mets manager Carlos Mendoza announced a flexible rotation that could use Jared Thornton as spot starter or reliever.
Clay Holmes’ fractured right fibula will keep him out into August, forcing the Mets to explore other arms.
The Mets are weighing Sean Manaea, Tobias Myers, Jack Wenninger and Jonah Tong as Holmes’ replacements.
Thornton is not on the 40-man roster, so the Mets must clear a slot before promoting him.

History

Historical Context

MLB introduced a 60-day injured list in 1990, which removes a player from the 40-man roster and frees a spot. A 2007 rule change then let teams replace an injured player on a playoff roster. The Boston Red Sox have used the 60-day IL for roster management, and the New York Mets now apply the same flexibility.

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Thornton Debuts

The New York Mets called up left-handed prospect Zach Thornton to debut Wednesday versus the Washington Nationals.
Manager Carlos Mendoza said Thornton earned the spot because he throws strikes and matches the Nationals’ left-handed lineup.
Thornton posted a 2.25 ERA, 0.92 WHIP and 13 strikeouts in 12 Triple-A innings at Syracuse, replacing right-hander Clay Holmes, who entered the 60-day injured list with a fractured right fibula.

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