The New York Mets optioned left-handed reliever Jefry Yan to Triple-A Syracuse on Saturday night, ending a brief but memorable stretch in the majors for the 30-year-old pitcher who had quickly become a favorite among fans.
The move came after the Mets dropped a 9-5 decision to the San Francisco Giants. New York is essentially out of the National League wild-card picture and will close out the series Sunday afternoon.
Yan first joined the Mets on Aug. 4. In the weeks that followed, he stood out as much for his personality as for his pitching. He showed a lively presence on the mound and celebrated with energy that fans noticed right away.
His route to the big leagues added to the appeal. Yan had spent four years away from professional baseball after an elbow injury. He worked his way back through the minors before the Mets gave him a chance.
The organization announced the corresponding roster move of calling up right-handed pitcher Tobias Myers. The Mets posted a simple statement on social media confirming the transactions.
Yan appeared in 13 games for New York. He worked 12.2 innings, posted a 1-1 record and finished with a 5.68 ERA.
He struck out 17 batters during that span. He also issued 11 walks.
Those numbers were not enough to keep him on the major league roster as the season winds down.Mets supporters reacted quickly online once the news circulated.
Yan’s time with the Mets lasted just over a month. He arrived as a journeyman looking for another opportunity and left having given fans a few memorable nights at Citi Field.
The Mets continue to evaluate their bullpen as they play out the remaining schedule. Myers now gets a look in the same role Yan occupied.
For a pitcher who had been away from the game for years, the call-up itself represented a significant chapter. The demotion closes that chapter for now.
Yan will report to Syracuse and continue pitching in the minor leagues. Whether he returns to the Mets later this season or next year remains to be seen.
The Giants series provided the backdrop for the roster shuffle. New York had already seen its playoff hopes fade, making roster decisions focused more on evaluation than contention.
Fans who enjoyed Yan’s celebrations and demeanor expressed disappointment, even while recognizing the statistical reality.
The 30-year-old left-hander leaves behind a small sample of work and a larger impression as a player who connected with the crowd.
The Mets move forward with a different mix in the bullpen heading into Sunday’s finale and the rest of September.
