In a move that’s sure to spark debate among baseball fans, the New York Mets have claimed infielder Tsung-Che Cheng off waivers from the Tampa Bay Rays. But here’s where it gets interesting: Cheng, a 24-year-old lefty swinger, hasn’t exactly lit up the scoreboard in his brief MLB career. After a hitless debut with the Pirates in 2025 and a lackluster Triple-A performance last year (.207/.305/.267), many are left wondering: Can he turn things around in Queens? And this is the part most people miss: despite his struggles at the plate, Cheng brings a unique skill set to the table. He’s a speedster with 20 stolen bases under his belt, a versatile defender at shortstop, second base, and third base, and boasts an impressive 12.5% career walk rate in the minors. Is he a diamond in the rough or just another waiver wire gamble?
The Mets, who had an open spot on their 40-man roster, didn’t need to make any corresponding moves to secure Cheng. This acquisition comes after a whirlwind few weeks for the young infielder. Pittsburgh designated him for assignment last month, the Rays claimed him only to designate him again after acquiring lefty Ken Waldichuk, and now he finds himself in a Mets uniform. With a minor league option year remaining, Cheng offers the Mets fleet-footed depth and solid defensive versatility, though his offensive production remains a question mark. There’s no guarantee he’ll survive spring training cuts, but for now, he provides valuable insurance in case of injuries or potential trades involving young infielders like Mark Vientos, Luisangel Acuña, or Ronny Mauricio.
But here’s the controversial part: While Cheng’s speed and defense are undeniable assets, his bat has yet to catch up. Can the Mets’ coaching staff unlock his offensive potential, or will he remain a defensive specialist with limited upside? And let’s not forget the bigger question: In a league increasingly dominated by power hitters, is there still room for a player like Cheng?
What do you think? Is Tsung-Che Cheng a smart pickup for the Mets, or just another waiver wire experiment? Let us know in the comments below—we’re eager to hear your take on this intriguing roster move!
