Mets acquire top prospect Jefferson Rojas from Cubs in deadline trade

The New York Mets completed a deadline transaction that sent right-hander Clay Holmes and outfielder Tyrone Taylor to the Chicago Cubs in exchange for 21-year-old infielder Jefferson Rojas. Rojas, who was ranked the Cubs' No. 63 prospect, is now listed as the Mets' top prospect, ahead of Jonah Tong.

Rojas, a bat-first infielder from the Dominican Republic, posted a .270 average with 15 home runs and an .800 OPS in 91 Double-A games for Knoxville, striking out only 16.4 percent of the time, which placed him 15th among qualified players at that level. Scouts view him as a potential everyday second baseman, noting his strong arm and experience at second base, shortstop and third base.

"Really excited, well-rounded player," Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns said, adding that Rojas is an "extremely hard worker" who fits the organization.

Holmes, who is expected to decline a $12 million option for 2027, missed two months after a fibula fracture, while Taylor, a free-agent after the season, returned from a hip flexor strain and hit seven home runs in 24 games.

"Those are types of deals that we had explored throughout the past week," Stearns said, describing the trade as the final piece of the Mets' deadline activity.

The Mets also added several other prospects in related deals, including infielder Émilien Pitre, shortstop Sammy Stafura and pitcher Gabe Davis. Stearns said the acquisitions add significant talent to the organization as it looks ahead to 2027.

"We’re excited about the players we’re bringing in," he added.