Rob Whalen has ended his retirement.
The Mets have extended a spring training invitation to 25 year old right hander, Rob Whalen.
Whalen is no stranger to the Mets, as the team drafted him in the 12th round in 2012.
After multiple knee injuries he was traded to the Braves in what has become quite the memorable trade. He was dealt along with John Gant in 2015 for Kelly Johnson and Juan Uribe.
Prior to the 2017 season, he was traded to the Seattle Mariners. At this point, some mental issues emerged for Whalen. He struggled with anxiety and was unable to get himself motivated.
Whalen had a rough time in Seattle on the field as well and eventually decided to step away from the game prior to the 2019 season.
Since then, Whalen has kept busy by coaching youth baseball.
This is an easy guy to root for so it’ll definitely be interesting to see how he looks this spring.
He’s only pitched 36 innings in the majors, posting a 5.75 ERA. He has shown flashes at various stops in the minors.
To get back in baseball after retiring at such a young age, you would think that he’s mentally prepared and motivated to continue his career.
Good look, Rob!
*WE WILL SHARE THE DETAILS OF THE DEAL ONCE WE RECEIVE THEM**