New York Mets Shore Up Catcher Depth, Claim Former Top Prospect Drew Romo

The New York Mets have acquired catching depth with potential. On Wednesday, the team claimed catcher Drew Romo off waivers from the Baltimore Orioles. The move adds a young, once-highly-touted defender to their 40-man roster.

To make room for Romo, the Mets designated left-handed pitcher Brandon Waddell for assignment. The transaction highlights the team’s focus on building organizational depth, especially behind the plate.

Romo Brings High-Pedigree Defense to Mets System

Drew Romo is a 24-year-old switch-hitter. He was a first-round draft pick by the Colorado Rockies in 2020. Romo quickly rose to become a top-100 national prospect, praised extensively for his defensive skills behind the plate.

His major league experience remains limited. Romo has played in just 19 games over the past two seasons with Colorado. His offensive output in that small sample was modest, but his reputation is built on his glove and game-calling.

According to MLB Pipeline, Romo was ranked as the Rockies’ number two prospect in 2022. He remained a top-ten organizational prospect as recently as last year. This pedigree makes him a valuable, low-risk addition for the Mets.

A Strategic Move for Catching Insurance

This acquisition is largely about depth and flexibility. The Mets’ primary catcher, Francisco Álvarez, has faced injury setbacks in consecutive seasons. Having multiple capable options on the 40-man roster is a prudent strategy.

Romo joins Álvarez, Luis Torrens, and Hayden Senger as catchers on the roster. He can be optioned to the minors, providing crucial insurance. This move prevents the team from being caught short-handed if injuries strike again.

The corresponding DFA of Brandon Waddell shows the roster calculus. Waddell, 31, pitched adequately in relief for the Mets in 2025. However, being out of minor league options made him the likely casualty for a needed positional addition.

The Mets’ waiver claim on Drew Romo is a classic depth-building maneuver. It adds a former elite prospect with strong defensive tools to their system. This move provides vital insurance behind the plate for the upcoming season.

A quick knowledge drop for you

Who did the Mets lose to claim Drew Romo?

The Mets designated left-handed pitcher Brandon Waddell for assignment. Waddell had pitched in relief for New York during the 2025 season.

What is Drew Romo known for?

Romo is primarily known for his excellent defensive skills as a catcher. He was a highly-regarded prospect for his game-calling and defensive mechanics.

How much MLB experience does Romo have?

He has very limited experience, appearing in only 19 major league games. In those games with Colorado, he recorded 9 hits in 54 at-bats.

Where does Romo fit on the Mets’ depth chart?

He likely begins as a depth option in Triple-A Syracuse. He provides injury insurance behind starters Francisco Álvarez and Luis Torrens.

Why was Romo available on waivers?

Baltimore designated him for assignment to create a 40-man roster spot. They needed room after signing other players, including former Met Pete Alonso.