In a move to strengthen their bullpen as the trade deadline looms, the New York Mets acquired right-handed pitcher Ryne Stanek from the Seattle Mariners on Friday. The 33-year-old reliever expressed his enthusiasm about joining a contender and contributing to a winning club during his first press conference on Saturday.

Stanek admitted that being traded from one contending team to another was a unique experience. However, he acknowledged the value of joining a team where he can continue to compete for a postseason spot. "When you find out you're getting traded, it's always like, 'Oh, ok cool. Where?' It was cool. It was definitely different considering when I was there we were contending, but going from contender to contender is good. If you're going to go somewhere, you definitely want to go someplace you can win. It's good to be here whenever the boys are playing good baseball," said Stanek.

When asked if the trade took him by surprise, Stanek pointed out that the Mariners have been active in the trade market and are expected to continue making moves. Their recent acquisitions include the 2023 All-Star outfielder Randy Arozarena from the Tampa Bay Rays and reliever Yimi García from the Toronto Blue Jays. "Contending and you get moved, and then get moved to another contender, it's odd, it felt odd. It wasn't something that felt like it wasn't going to happen because obviously they have been making moves and are probably going to continue making moves. I think it's just kind of in their M.O. of what they like to do. I think it's gonna work out, so we're good," added Stanek.

Currently, the Mariners hold a 54-51 record and are second in the AL West, trailing the Houston Astros by one game. They are also 3.5 games behind the third AL Wild Card spot. On the other hand, the Mets have been on a five-game winning streak and are now leading the NL Wild Card race, half a game ahead of the Atlanta Braves and San Diego Padres. The Mets' need for bullpen reinforcements became even more evident when reliever Dedniel Nunez was placed on the injured list with a right pronator strain.

Stanek expressed his confidence that he can make an immediate impact. "I would like to think I can come in and help. I think the whole plan is just go out and do my job and go from there," he stated. With an ERA of 4.38, a WHIP of 1.33, seven saves, and 46 strikeouts over 39.0 innings pitched this season, Stanek brings experience and stability to New York's bullpen.

Mets manager Carlos Mendoza confirmed that Stanek would be available for the team's upcoming games and is expected to slot into the late innings right away. Stanek also expressed his excitement about joining a talented group of players and forming relationships with his new teammates. "It's a good team, it's a super talented team, it's a team that's been playing good... it's exciting to come in and be a piece of this," he said.

Stanek mentioned that the Mets' roster consists of players with playoff experience, which distinguishes the team from others he has been a part of. With a solid foundation of experienced players, Stanek believes his focus will be on fitting in, doing his job, and contributing to the team's success in the postseason race.

As the trade deadline approaches, the Mets' acquisition of Ryne Stanek demonstrates their commitment to strengthening their bullpen and making a strong push for the playoffs. With a talented roster and a determined addition in Stanek, the Mets aim to cement their position as a top contender in the National League.