The New York Mets, desperate to ignite their sputtering lineup and snap a frustrating five-game skid, have reached into their system for a familiar face. Veteran outfielder Tommy Pham has been called up ahead of Monday's series opener against the powerhouse Los Angeles Dodgers.

Pham, 38, rejoins the organization after signing a minor league deal in late March. To make room on the roster, the Mets optioned infielder Ronny Mauricio to Triple-A Syracuse.

This move is a clear attempt to inject some experience and offensive pop. The Mets' struggles are evident in the stats; they entered the series ranked near the bottom of the National League in runs scored. Pham, a well-traveled veteran of ten MLB clubs, is no stranger to pressure. He spent part of last season in Queens, posting a solid .268 average with 10 homers before a mid-season trade to Arizona.

His call-up is particularly timely with All-Star Juan Soto still sidelined by a calf strain. While Pham's recent stint in Class A was brief, his track record suggests he can provide a professional at-bat and some much-needed stability. For the Mets, hoping to climb out of the NL East cellar, they're betting that Pham's veteran presence can provide the spark their season needs.