Major Trade Announcement: Mets Add Semien, Deal Nimmo

The New York Mets have made a significant roster move, acquiring three-time All-Star Marcus Semien from the Texas Rangers in exchange for outfielder Brandon Nimmo. According to ESPN’s Jeff Passan, the trade, which also saw Nimmo waive his no-trade clause, was confirmed by various sources, including the New York Post's Jon Heyman.

As part of the deal, the Mets will take on Semien's substantial $26 million salary for the 2026 season. This comes after the team had a projected payroll of $242.4 million and aims to bolster their lineup following a disappointing 2025 season, where they finished with an 83-79 record and missed the playoffs. Semien, entering the fifth year of a seven-year, $175 million contract, is renowned for his offensive capabilities and defensive skills.

Last season, Semien had 15 home runs, 62 RBI, and a .230 batting average over 127 games. However, an injury—a left foot fracture from a foul ball—cut his season short, and he hopes to return to peak form with the Mets.

Meanwhile, Nimmo’s performance last year was stellar, as he hit a career-high 25 home runs and 92 RBI, along with a batting average of .262. The 29-year-old is now expected to bring his offensive output to Texas, where the Rangers have undergone changes in hopes of significant improvement after back-to-back seasons without postseason play since their 2023 World Series victory.

With Semien on board, the Mets are looking to address key areas, especially pitching, as they aim for a more successful 2026 season.