The New York Mets have kicked off their offseason with a splash, signaling that more moves could be on the horizon.
After a surprising run to the National League Championship Series, the Mets are gearing up for a strong push in 2025. Their free-agent activity will be highly anticipated due to their history of big spending, but before diving into the market, they made a trade.
Center field had been a weak spot for the Mets throughout the 2024 season, and with the new year approaching, the position remained a question mark. While the team could still make adjustments once free agents start signing, their trade on Tuesday might have provided the solution.
As reported by Anthony DiComo of MLB.com, the Mets acquired center fielder José Siri from the Tampa Bay Rays in exchange for relief pitcher Eric Orze. Siri, 29, is under team control for three more years and is expected to earn $2.5 million in arbitration for 2024, according to Spotrac.
This trade likely signals the end of Harrison Bader’s tenure in New York, as he is expected to leave via free agency. The Mets also have Tyrone Taylor, who played center field for them in the postseason, under contract through 2026.
Siri had a rough 2024 at the plate, posting a .187 batting average, 18 home runs, and a .620 OPS. However, his defense makes up for his offensive inconsistencies; he ranked fifth in MLB with 16 outs above average this season.
Known for his fiery demeanor, Siri has also been involved in several on-field altercations, including a memorable brawl with Milwaukee’s Abner Uribe in 2024. Despite his ups and downs at the plate, the Mets are hopeful his athleticism and edge will be assets. They’ll take the risk on trading Orze, who struggled in his limited MLB debut, giving up four earned runs in just 1 2/3 innings. Only time will tell if this trade pays off.
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