Mets' London Series Ad Features Relievers, Ex-Pitcher Despite Star-Studded Roster

The New York Mets' advertisement for their London Series game against the Philadelphia Phillies featured three relievers, including one who hasn't played for the team since 2022, despite having several star players on their roster.

Despite their mediocre record, the New York Mets still boast a lineup of notable players. However, an advertisement promoting their London Series game against the Philadelphia Phillies featured an unexpected selection of Mets representatives: three relievers, one of whom is no longer on the team.

The Mets, who entered the overseas game with a disappointing 27-35 record, were represented on the advertisement by Adam Ottavino, Reed Garrett, and Jake Reed. The inclusion of Jake Reed, who played just nine games for the Mets in 2021 and 2022, raised eyebrows, as he was designated for assignment (DFA) in July 2022 and has since had brief stints with other teams but remains unsigned.

The exclusion of Mets stars Pete Alonso, Francisco Lindor, and Starling Marte from the advertisement was particularly puzzling given their name recognition and contributions to the team. Lindor leads the team with a 1.6 Wins Above Replacement (WAR), followed by Harrison Bader (1.3) and rookie Mark Viento (1.1).

The Phillies, on the other hand, were represented by Bryce Harper and Trea Turner in the advertisement, reflecting their status as a powerhouse team with the best record in baseball (44-19).

To make matters worse, the advertisement also included a Hawaiian shirt with both teams' logos, a seemingly inappropriate choice given their intense rivalry in the NL East.

The Mets' London Series campaign started with a disappointing note, as the Phillies scored six runs in the fourth inning against Sean Manaea, exposing the Mets' defensive struggles.

Despite winning five of their last seven games before heading to Europe, the Mets' performance in their first game abroad served as a reality check, highlighting the gap between them and the contending Phillies.