Just when it seemed like David Stearns was playing it safe this offseason, the Mets’ president of baseball operations threw a curveball by landing Bo Bichette. That headline-grabbing move signaled something bigger: the Mets aren’t just reshuffling the deck-they’re reimagining the whole table.
And while the front office has made waves with big-name additions, they’ve also been quietly stockpiling depth behind the scenes. Case in point: Tsung-Che Cheng.
Cheng, a 22-year-old infielder, was claimed off waivers after a brief stop with the Tampa Bay Rays, who had picked him up earlier this month from the Pirates. He’s not a household name-far from it.
His Triple-A numbers from last season (.209/.309/.271) don’t jump off the page, and he’s a career .218 hitter at that level. But in a front office that values flexibility and roster maneuvering, Cheng fits a familiar mold.
Let’s be clear: this isn’t a move meant to shake up the Mets’ infield. With the 40-man roster now full following the Bichette signing, Cheng is more of a depth piece-a just-in-case option rather than a player expected to log innings at Citi Field.
If you’re looking for a recent comparison, think Luis De Los Santos. He was a versatile infielder brought in under similar circumstances last year, only to be designated for assignment and spend the season in Triple-A Syracuse, where he hit .242 while playing across the infield.
Cheng brings a similar profile. He’s played mostly shortstop but has seen time at second and third as well.
His calling card isn’t the bat-it’s his speed and defensive versatility. He swiped 18 bags last season in Triple-A, though he was caught seven times, so the efficiency still needs work.
Still, that kind of speed is valuable in today’s game, especially off the bench or in late-game situations.
There’s also a bit of old-school flavor to Cheng’s game. He’s shown a willingness to bunt, not something you see often in today’s power-driven game.
Twice in his five minor league seasons, he’s laid down 10 or more sacrifice bunts. If he ever does get a shot in the majors, don’t be surprised if his first plate appearance ends with him dropping one down the line.
Realistically, Cheng is a long shot to crack the big-league roster. It would likely take a rash of injuries or a significant shake-up for him to get the call. But in an organization that’s clearly looking to build depth and stay nimble, he’s the kind of player you stash away-just in case.
Moves like this don’t make headlines, but they’re part of the bigger picture. The Mets are building out their roster with an eye on flexibility, and Cheng is another chess piece in that strategy.
Whether he sticks around or is gone before spring is over, it’s the kind of low-risk, low-cost move that could quietly pay off-or simply fade into the background as the roster continues to evolve. Either way, it’s another reminder that Stearns is always working a few moves ahead.