Mon Jun 23 02:00:00 UTC 2025: **Mets Option Catcher Francisco Alvarez to Triple-A, Call Up Hayden Senger**

**NEW YORK** – In a surprising move aimed at sparking the team’s offense and improving behind-the-plate defense, the New York Mets have optioned catcher Francisco Alvarez to Triple-A Syracuse. Veteran catcher Hayden Senger has been recalled to fill Alvarez’s spot on the active roster.

Alvarez, 23, has struggled to find consistency this season after undergoing surgery on his left hand in the spring. Since returning to the lineup in late April, he’s batting .236 with a .333 slugging percentage, a noticeable drop from his rookie year when he showed promising power and strong defensive skills. His defensive metrics have also declined, particularly in blocking and framing pitches.

“Between his offense trending downward and his uncharacteristically lackluster defense behind the plate, the Mets clearly felt it was time to send him to the minors for a reset,” said Mets’s manager.

The move comes as the Mets are locked in a tight race for the NL East title with the Philadelphia Phillies. The team hopes Alvarez can regain his form in the minors, while Senger will back up current starting catcher Luis Torrens.

Senger, 28, made his major league debut earlier this season and has appeared in 13 games for the Mets.

While the move signals a sense of urgency for the Mets, the team remains confident in Alvarez’s long-term potential. General Manager, Eppler stated that the Mets aren’t looking to add to the catching position as they head into the trade season. Alvarez is expected to return to the majors later this season.

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