Mets Sign Merryweather to Minor League Deal

As the MLB trade deadline approaches, the New York Mets have signed veteran reliever Julian Merryweather to a minor league contract following his release from the Chicago Cubs. Merryweather, who has demonstrated high-level pitching when healthy, is expected to add depth to the Mets' bullpen. The signing comes amid a flurry of trade deadline speculation involving several teams, including the Padres targeting outfield help and the Yankees pursuing Padres infielder Luis Arraez. The Padres and Dodgers are also reportedly interested in Astros pitcher Framber Valdez if Houston chooses to sell. The Mets, despite having a strong pitching staff, continue to seek ways to enhance their roster depth. These moves reflect teams' efforts to strengthen key areas ahead of the playoff push.