Nate Lavender Returns to Mets Triple-A Roster Following Rays Outright, Continues Rehab

LHP Nate Lavender has officially returned to the New York Mets' Triple-A roster after being outrighted by the Tampa Bay Rays. Lavender, who was acquired by the Rays via the Rule 5 Draft last winter, suffered an elbow injury requiring an internal brace procedure. Before his injury, the 25-year-old made five Triple-A appearances, including one start, with Syracuse in 2024, posting a 3.86 ERA. He had generated buzz heading into the 2024 season, following a strong 2023 campaign where he recorded a 1.74 ERA in seven Double-A appearances and a 3.27 ERA in 35 Triple-A appearances. While his rehab progress remains unclear, Lavender is considered a potential depth piece for the bullpen this spring.