Reporter explains why Mets cut Jorge Lopez

Mar 26, 2022; Port St. Lucie, Florida, USA; The New York Mets logo stands in center field before the game against the Washington Nationals at Clover Park. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports

The New York Mets designated pitcher Jorge Lopez for assignment following his actions on Wednesday night. A Mets reporter explained what went into the team’s decision, and he says it has nothing to do with any confusion over the pitcher’s use of team vs. teammate.

According to Mets reporter Anthony DiComo of MLB.com, the Mets found Lopez’s behavior to be unacceptable across the board.

“Jorge López was not DFA’d because of any ‘team/teammate’ confusion. He was DFA’d because he embarrassed the organization with his actions and words, throwing his glove into the stands, lying about meeting with management and offering zero remorse,” DiComo reported on Thursday.

DiComo added that the Mets found Lopez’s cursing in the interview and lack of contrition to be “unacceptable.”

That's it. That's the whole thing. Regardless of what actual words López said, he swore multiple times on camera after having an hour-plus to cool off postgame. His tone was clear and obvious and the furthest thing from contrite. Mets officials found it unacceptable.

— Anthony DiComo (@AnthonyDiComo) May 30, 2024

Lopez threw his glove into the stands at Citi Field after being ejected during his team’s 10-3 loss to the Dodgers. Then after the game, Lopez said he had no regret over his actions and called himself the “worst teammate” in MLB. The comment was widely misreported as Lopez calling the Mets the worst team in the league. But that comment was misresported as such in large part because when asked to clarify, Lopez did not correct a reporter.

The media certainly did Lopez no favors and made the relief pitcher look a lot worse. But if DiComo’s reporting is correct, the confusion over the team/teammate remark had nothing to do with Lopez being cut from the roster.