The Mets have designated right-hander Phil Bickford for assignment to make room for J.D. Martinez on the roster. Bickford, acquired last year, had a 4.95 ERA over 67 1/3 innings, with notable strikeout and walk rates. Due to new bullpen additions, Bickford faced challenges making the roster. He doesn't have minor league options, forcing the DFA move. His salary is set at $900k for the season, with possible implications from his arbitration hearing. His future remains uncertain as teams finalize their rosters before Opening Day.

This move showcases the competitive nature of MLB rosters, where performance and financial considerations drive decisions around player contracts and placements.

• Bickford posted a 4.95 ERA over 67 1/3 innings last season.
• He had a 25% strikeout rate and a 12.8% walk rate.
• Bickford is set to earn a salary of $900k for the season.

• Bickford was designated for assignment to make roster space for J.D. Martinez.
• The Mets had to go the DFA route due to Bickford's lack of minor league options.
• Teams are finalizing rosters and decisions as Opening Day nears, potentially affecting Bickford's future in the league.

Bickford's fate relies on the waiver process where another team can claim him, leading to a new opportunity with potential contract variations.

The Mets' decision to designate Bickford reflects the strategic complexities of roster management in the MLB, intertwining performance, financial considerations, and team dynamics in shaping player futures.