The New York Mets made a significant move on Wednesday, acquiring right-hander Adrian Houser and outfielder Tyrone Taylor from the Milwaukee Brewers in exchange for minor league pitcher Coleman Crow.
This trade marked the first deal between the Mets and Brewers since former Brewers president of baseball operations, David Stearns, took over as the head of baseball operations for the Mets. Stearns had been with the Brewers since October 2015, initially as the general manager, before stepping down after the 2022 season.
Stearns expressed excitement about the acquisition, highlighting Taylor’s versatility in the outfield and Houser’s proven track record as a major league starter, which will enhance the Mets’ rotation depth.
Adrian Houser, who is set to turn 31 on Feb. 2, had spent his entire major league career with the Brewers. He compiled a 31-34 record with a 4.00 ERA in 129 appearances and 97 starts for the Brewers from 2015 to 2023. In the 2023 season, he posted an 8-5 record with a 4.12 ERA and 96 strikeouts in 111 1/3 innings across 23 games, including 21 starts.
Tyrone Taylor, who will celebrate his 30th birthday on Jan. 22, had been with the Brewers from 2019 to 2023. During that time, he batted .239 with a .294 on-base percentage, hitting 41 homers and driving in 136 runs. In the 2023 season, he had a .234 batting average, a .267 on-base percentage, 10 home runs, and 35 RBI in 81 games. Taylor is also known for his ability to play all three outfield positions.
Both Houser and Taylor are eligible for arbitration, adding flexibility to the Mets’ roster.
Brewers president of baseball operations Matt Arnold expressed gratitude for the contributions of Houser and Taylor to the team’s success. He emphasized the Brewers’ confidence in their young outfielders and exciting pitching prospects.
Houser’s departure marks another change in the Brewers’ rotation following their NL Central title-winning season. The Brewers aim to replace Brandon Woodruff, a two-time All-Star who wasn’t tendered a contract due to a shoulder injury that may sideline him for the entire season. The team still boasts 2021 NL Cy Young Award winner Corbin Burnes and other promising pitchers.
Meanwhile, the Mets look forward to the impact of their new acquisitions as they continue to build a competitive roster for the upcoming season.