The New York Mets took losing to the Pittsburgh Pirates on Memorial Day hard. In fact the Mets fired hitting coach Dave Hudgens and released reliever Jose Valverde.
Hudgens had been with the Mets since the 2011 season but entering action on Monday the Mets were in the bottom third of teams in just about every offensive stat. Lamar Johnson will take over for the time being.
The Mets also cut ties with Jose Valverde shortly after he blew a save against the Pirates. Called upon to record a four out save and protect a 2-1 lead Valverde imploded allowing four runs while allowing five of the seven batters he faced to reach base.
He will end his time with the Mets with a 5.66 ERA and a 1.70 WHIP in 20 2/3 innings of work.
Vic Black is expected to replace Valverde on the Mets roster.