Mets Eye Verdugo, Winker to Strengthen Lineup

Among the final tasks on the New York Mets’ offseason checklist is bringing on another corner outfielder to add to the depth chart behind Juan Soto and Brandon Nimmo, alongside Tyrone Taylor and Jose Siri.

President of baseball operations David Stearns’ interest does not bode well for Starling Marte’s future with the club. He has one year and roughly $20.75 million left on his contract before hitting free agency and has been linked in trade talks throughout the offseason.

Following the Mets’ 2024 run to the NLCS, Stearns mentioned that there was interest in bringing back Jesse Winker, who was acquired at the trade deadline from the Washington Nationals. That interest has been maintained throughout the offseason, with the left-handed bat providing corner-outfield and designated-hitter depth.

Winker quickly developed into a fan favorite during his half-season in Queens, even if he posted a .683 OPS. He was a key contributor in the postseason, though, batting .318 with a 1.168 OPS, one home run, and four RBI in 10 games.

“There are so many great people here,” Winker told amNewYork in October. “It is such an honor to put on this uniform. I’m so thankful for everyone in this organization for trading for me. I’m thankful for the Mets for the opportunity. It’s been a dream come true.”

Jesse Winker walk-off Mets Orioles — Aug 21, 2024; New York City, New York, USA; New York Mets left fielder Jesse Winker (3) celebrates with teammates after hitting a game-winning solo home run during the bottom of the ninth inning against the Baltimore Orioles at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports

Add another potential name to the corner-outfield wishlist, though, as MassLive.com’s Chris Cotillo reported that the Mets have been involved in talks with former Boston Red Sox and Yankees outfielder Alex Verdugo.

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The 28-year-old did not live up to his offensive expectations when he was acquired from the Red Sox by the Yankees for the 2024 season. In his lone season in the Bronx, he batted .233 with a .647 OPS, 13 home runs, and 61 RBI.

In a lesser role with the Mets, Verdugo would be more of a defensive specialist to step in for Nimmo and Soto in late-inning situations. Last season with the Yankees, his range (outs above average) ranked in MLB’s 76th percentile, while his arm value was in the 96th percentile and his arm strength was in the 94th.