The Chicago White Sox are shaking up their roster, and the New York Mets are ready to pounce. In a move that may raise some eyebrows, the White Sox are trading reliever Bryan Hudson to the Mets for cash, as reported by Joel Sherman of the New York Post.
Hudson's journey in the MLB has been a rollercoaster. Last season, he split his time between the Brewers and the White Sox. He started with Milwaukee, but control issues quickly became a concern. In just 8 2/3 innings, Hudson walked nine batters, leading to a demotion to Triple-A. He returned for one more appearance in May but was later designated for assignment in July. Chicago took a chance on him, and he pitched in four games for the team.
But here's where Hudson's story gets intriguing. In 2024, he was a standout in the Brewers' bullpen, which boasted the best ERA in the National League. Hudson's numbers were impressive: a 1.73 ERA in 62 2/3 innings, 14 holds (second on the team), and six wins. However, his .148 BABIP and 94.2% left on base rate were likely unsustainable, indicating potential regression.
The real challenge for Hudson lies in his ability to find the strike zone. Last season, he managed a strike rate of just 57.9% across 16 major league appearances. Additionally, his pitch velocity took a hit; his four-seamer, already on the slower side, averaged 90.5 mph in 2025, and his sweeper and cutter also lost some steam. This decline is reflected in his Stuff+ rating, dropping from 100 to 94 in the past year.
The Mets see an opportunity to bolster their bullpen with a left-handed arm. With A.J. Minter's availability for Opening Day uncertain due to a torn lat injury, Hudson could step in. The Mets have Brooks Raley as their left-handed option in the later innings, but the rest of their bullpen is currently right-handed dominant.
And this is where the trade gets even more interesting. Reed Garrett, a right-hander for the Mets, is expected to miss the entire 2026 season after undergoing Tommy John surgery in October. His move to the 60-day injured list creates a vacancy that Hudson could fill.
Is this trade a calculated risk for the Mets, or a potential bargain? Will Hudson find his 2024 form again? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
