Former Dodgers Pitcher DFA’d By New York Mets to Make Room for All-Star
Former Dodgers relief pitcher Phil Bickford was designated for assignment by the New York Mets as they welcomed former Dodgers designated hitter J.D. Martinez to the team. New York had to make room for Martinez on the active roster, so Bickford ended up being the corresponding move.
Bickford was traded to the Mets at the trade deadline last season, making 25 appearances with New York. Splitting time between the two teams, Bickford posted an ERA of 4.95 over 67.1 innings of work.
He held an above-average strikeout rate of 25% and a walk rate of 12.8%. It wasn’t an overly productive year for the veteran right-hander, but the Mets gave him a chance in Spring Training to make the team.
In 4.2 innings pitched this spring, Bickford posted an ERA of 5.79 and a WHIP of 1.07. It wasn’t his best showing, making him a good candidate to be let go.
He could return to the Mets, albeit in the minor leagues, or another team may give him a chance. Bickford is still only 28 years old and has shown some flashes during his time in the big leagues.
The right-hander holds a career ERA of 4.43 over 180.2 innings of work. He will likely get another shot in the big leagues but will need to show more consistency to avoid this happening again down the line.
Photo Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
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