Mets acquire speedster Billy Hamilton from Giants

The Mets are bringing in a defensive reinforcement.

They have traded for outfielder Billy Hamilton, acquiring the 29-year-old speedster from the Giants for right-handed pitcher Jordan Humphreys. Hamilton had yet to play for the Giants this season.

With center fielder Jake Marisnick out with a hamstring injury, Hamilton provides the Mets with a strong defensive center fielder to spell Brandon Nimmo.

Hamilton split 2019 between the Royals and Braves, stealing 22 bases in 119 total games. From 2013-18 with the Reds, Hamilton stole 277 bases in 690 games, eclipsing 56 steals in four straight seasons from 2014-17. Since he debuted in 2013, Hamilton’s 72 defensive runs saved ranks second among all center fielders.

The Mets had previously designated Humphreys for assignment.