Speier

NEW YORK -- Trying to bolster their beleaguered pitching staff, the New York Mets got reliever Justin Speier from the Cleveland Indians on Saturday for a player to be named.

The deal was announced in the middle of the Mets' game against Los Angeles.

Speier was 2-0 despite a 6.97 ERA in 12 games for Cleveland. The Indians were playing a weekend series in Anaheim, and Speier was to fly cross-country to join the Mets for Sunday's game against the Dodgers.

Once Speier reports to Shea Stadium, the Mets will have to make a roster move.

The Mets began Saturday in last place in the NL East at 16-25, the second-worst record in the league.

Coming off their World Series appearance last October, the Mets have stumbled all season. Pitching, a strong point last year, has been among New York's biggest problems.

The Mets started the day with a 5.08 ERA, third-worst in the NL. Among the relievers struggling the most were newcomers Donne Wall (5.50 ERA) and Tom Martin (10.95 ERA). Martin, acquired from the Indians in January, is on the disabled list with a strained left rotator cuff.

Speier, the 27-year-old son of former major league infielder Chris Speier, excelled in the Indians' bullpen last year. The right-hander was 5-2 with a 3.29 ERA in 47 games last season. He struck out 69 in 68 1/3 innings.

Speier also has pitched with the Chicago Cubs, Florida and Atlanta in the majors. He is 7-5 lifetime.

Speier has pitched in 327 pro games, including 97 in the majors, and all have been in relief.