New York Mets Sign Jesse Winker to One-Year Deal
Jesse Winker has finalized a one-year deal with the New York Mets, as confirmed by a knowledgeable source on Thursday. This move might indicate that the franchise is not looking to bring back star first baseman Pete Alonso.
The source, who requested anonymity due to the pending physical examination required for the contract, highlighted Winker’s recent transfer to the Mets from the Washington Nationals on July 28. In his time with New York, Winker recorded a batting average of .243, hitting three home runs and driving in 13 runs across 44 games. Notably, he delivered a crucial two-run triple in the Wild Card Series against Milwaukee, homered in Game 3 of the Division Series against the Philadelphia Phillies, and added an RBI triple in the National League Championship Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers.
The left-handed outfielder boasts an overall batting average of .253 from the previous season, tallying 14 home runs and 58 RBIs while achieving a .764 OPS before entering free agency. As a 31-year-old corner outfielder, Winker is expected to see significant playing time at designated hitter for the Mets in the upcoming season, particularly alongside Starling Marte. This is especially pertinent since the club has also made headlines by securing right fielder Juan Soto with a historic 15-year contract valued at $765 million.
Throughout his eight years in Major League Baseball, Winker has maintained a career batting average of .262, hitting 95 home runs with 324 RBIs and an OPS of .804. His standout season came in 2021, when he earned an All-Star selection by hitting .305 and launching 24 home runs alongside 71 RBIs.
Meanwhile, Pete Alonso is also a free agent following the end of the season, having discussed his future with the Mets without finalizing any agreements. The signing of Winker could signal a strategic shift for the Mets, as they redirect their focus and financial resources.
Alonso, a four-time All-Star who recently turned 30 on December 7, has showcased his power by hitting 226 home runs over his six seasons with the Mets.
In addition, the Mets have announced intentions to honor longtime visiting clubhouse manager Tony Carullo by naming the visiting clubhouse at Citi Field after him. Carullo dedicated 51 years to the organization before retiring in 2019. He will receive the Mets Hall of Fame Achievement Award during a ceremony prior to the July 19 game against the Cincinnati Reds—an occasion that will also mark the induction of former captain David Wright into the team’s Hall of Fame, alongside the retirement of his iconic No. 5 jersey.
