By Sam Bush
When it is officially announced, the Phillies’ trade of the great Jimmy Rollins will be received with mixed feelings. Many, even those who think he is over the hill, will mourn the loss of the team’s heart and soul.
But when John Mayberry Jr.’s signing with the Mets is announced there will be no such reaction.
Except, perhaps, the fear that the light-hitting Mayberry may come back to haunt the Phils on an NL East foe.
According to an MLB source, the Mets agreed to terms with Mayberry on a one-year deal worth $1.45 million.
Mayberry, who turns 31 this month, will provide the team with a right-handed bat who can pinch hit and play the outfield against lefties. The Mets were attracted by the fact Mayberry has 30 homers in 490 career at-bats against lefties.
Mayberry hit .212 with seven homers and 23 RBIs last season split between the Phillies and Blue Jays. Five of those homers came in 70 at-bats against lefties.
“We like his athleticism,” Alderson said. “We like his makeup, and we think he’s got a chance to pitch against righties and lefties.”
The Phillies traded Mayberry Jr. to the Blue Jays on Sept. 1 for minor league infielder Gustavo Pierre.
He hit .213 with six home runs and 21 RBIs in 63 games for the Phillies last season. He’d been on the disabled list since July 21 because of inflammation in his left wrist.
In six seasons with the Phillies, Mayberry hit .242 with 52 homers and 169 RBIs.
