The New York Mets traded left-handed reliever A.J. Minter to the Minnesota Twins on Thursday in exchange for two prospects, signaling a possible start to a series of bullpen moves. The Mets acquired infielders Billy Amick and Bruin Agbayani, who are ranked No. 21 and No. 29 respectively in the Twins’ prospect system, according to MLB.com.

Minter, 32, posted a 2.12 ERA in 36 appearances with the Mets since joining the team last season. Despite his solid performance, the trade was anticipated amid the Mets’ struggles this season and the likelihood of leveraging bullpen assets for future talent. The transaction took place shortly after the Mets’ 4-2 victory over the Miami Marlins at Citi Field.

Bruin Agbayani, the son of former Mets outfielder Benny Agbayani, was selected in the sixth round of last year’s draft and has been playing Single-A ball this season. He is batting .268 with a .412 on-base percentage and a .342 slugging percentage, demonstrating a patient approach at the plate. His father is remembered by Mets fans for key postseason contributions, including a notable walk-off home run during the 2000 playoffs.

Billy Amick, a second-round pick in 2024, is also an infielder and has been competing with the Double-A Wichita team. This season, he has hit 23 home runs, showing promising power potential for the Mets’ farm system.

Former Mets manager Bobby Valentine, who managed Benny Agbayani both with New York and in Japan, offered positive remarks on Bruin Agbayani, highlighting his left-handed hitting, speed, and power.

This trade follows the Mets’ earlier departure of pitcher David Peterson in June. Reports indicate that relievers Luke Weaver and Brooks Raley might be next to move as the team continues to restructure its bullpen ahead of the trade deadline.