Jul 2, 2019; Arlington, TX, USA; Los Angeles Angels general manager Billy Eppler speaks during a press conference about the death of pitcher Tyler Skaggs before the game against the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Park in Arlington. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
MLB: Los Angeles Angels at Texas Rangers
(Queens, NY) – Amid former Mets GM Billy Eppler’s decision to resign, and the ensuing confusion, came word the New York Mets were being investigated – for allegedly improperly using the injured list.
As first reported by the New York Post, and later confirmed by SNY, this accusation involves claims the Mets would essentially “make up” injuries or exaggerate their nature in order to manipulate the roster.
In other words, sometimes a team needs to temporarily stick a veteran player without minor league options “somewhere” from a roster perspective – and the IL provides a temporary reprieve.
SNY claims the practice was widespread 15-to-20 years ago, but is less so now, following a crackdown by MLB. It’s not entirely clear what Eppler is accused of, but he’s reportedly cooperating fully with MLB officials. Eppler originally said he wanted newly appointed President of Baseball Operations David Stearns to have a “clean slate” and apparently he also doesn’t want to be a “distraction” during Stearns early tenure.
Eppler was still under contract for an additional two years and team owner Steve Cohen reportedly made it clear any incoming team president would need to work alongside the then-GM. Cohen is said to be very happy with how Eppler restocked the team’s farm system at this year’s trade deadline.
In terms of a potential punishment for the Mets if Eppler is found to be at fault, that’s also unclear. Things like reduced bonus money for international signees or lost draft picks are likely a possibility.
