Just days after being released by San Francisco Giants, All-Star second baseman Joe Panik managed to find a new job in MLB. Panik cleared waivers on Friday and then signed a deal with New York Mets.
In a corresponding move, Mets made infielder Adeiny Hechavarria designated for assignment.
Panik fills a big need for the Mets, as they just lost Robinson Cano to a torn hamstring injury. They are hoping that the 28-year-old will help them keep momentum and close in on the Washington Nationals, who are half-game in front for the second National League wild-card spot.
“I was ecstatic because you never know in these types of situations what’s going to happen. It couldn’t have worked out any better for myself personally,”- said Panik after inking the deal. “I have a lot of family and friends in the area. For me to be coming to a club that’s hot in a playoff push is very exciting. For me, it’s a great situation.”
Joe Panik made his MLB debut in 2014, helping the Giants en route to a World Series title in his rookie season. He made the All-Star team the following year, but couldn’t keep up the same level of performance since then which caused him to find himself out of favor with San Francisco this year.
Panik played 103 games in 2019 with the Giants, batting .235 with three home runs and 27 RBIs.
