NEW YORK -- The Mets made a major shakeup after Monday's 5-3 loss to the Pirates, dismissing hitting coach Dave Hudgens and releasing relief pitcher Jose Valverde.
The team promoted roving Minor League hitting instructor Lamar Johnson to fill Hudgens' role, and it recalled right-hander Vic Black from Triple-A Las Vegas to replace Valverde.
 
Mets change hitting coach, release Valverde
 
Hudgens has served as the Mets' hitting coach since 2011. This year, he oversaw an offense that ranks at or near the bottom of the league in several major offensive categories, including on-base percentage and slugging.
Valverde had a 5.66 ERA in 21 games, giving up four runs in Monday's loss.
Anthony DiComo / MLB.com
 

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