In 2023, the Mets released several veteran players following a failed effort to strengthen their roster, signaling a rebuilding phase for the team. However, the combined success of the remaining veterans and the emergence of young talent exceeded expectations, propelling the team into the playoffs. This offseason, with additional veteran players entering free agency, the Mets are once again targeting big-name acquisitions to rebuild their roster and aim for another playoff run.
New York Mets Free Agent Signing 2024-25
Juan Soto |
Signed: New York Mets 15-years 765 million (51 million / year)
Juan Soto made his MLB debut with the Washington Nationals in 2018 at just 19 years old, quickly gaining attention as a standout rookie. Since then, he has consistently lived up to expectations, establishing himself as one of the premier players in the majors and a future Hall of Famer at an exceptionally young age. Last year, while playing for the Yankees, he teamed up with Aaron Judge to form a dominant duo that led the team to the World Series.
In the offseason, Soto signed a record-breaking 15-year, $765 million contract with the Mets, surpassing the previous record set by Shohei Ohtani. Soto is now expected to not only lead the Mets but also serve as one of the defining faces of Major League Baseball in the years to come.
Frankie Montas |
Frankie Montas established himself as a dependable starting pitcher during his tenure with the Athletics. However, in recent years, recurring shoulder injuries hindered his performance, causing him to fall short of expectations. Last season, he made an impressive comeback, completing the year without injury. Given his talent, it’s reasonable to expect him to perform near his peak when healthy. Moving forward, more consistent performances are anticipated as he continues to regain his form.
New York Mets Trades 2024-25
Siri joined the Mets in a trade from the Tampa Bay Rays. Initially recognized for his exceptional outfield defense, he garnered high praise early in his career. In recent years, however, Siri has made significant strides at the plate, with a notable increase in his home run totals. However, his focus on power has come at a cost, resulting in a lower batting average and a marked rise in strikeouts. The key question is how effectively the Mets can leverage his strengths while compensating for his weaknesses.
New York Mets Free Agents 2024
In his 2019 debut, he set a rookie home run record, earning both the Home Run King and Rookie of the Year awards. Since then, he has been a cornerstone for the Mets, recognized as one of the league's premier cleanup hitters. Last season, he played a pivotal role in helping the Mets reach the playoffs, though there have been concerns about a slight decline in his performance in recent years. Even so, at just 30 years old, there is strong optimism surrounding the possibility of a long-term contract.
Sean Manaea |
Sean Manaea has been a left-handed starter since his debut in 2016. After an underwhelming stint with the Giants last season, he was moved to the bullpen. However, Manaea signed with the Mets for the 2024 season with hopes of reclaiming a spot in the starting rotation. His efforts to refine his pitching mechanics paid off, leading to a more consistent and career-best performance. His success made him one of the most sought-after free agents of the offseason as he pursues a multi-year contract.
Jose Quintana |
José Quintana, a talented left-handed pitcher with a proven track record in the majors, signed a two-year deal with the Mets in 2023. Unfortunately, injuries hindered his performance during his first season with the team. However, in 2024, Quintana made a full recovery and showcased the consistency expected of a seasoned veteran, playing a pivotal role in the Mets' playoff run. While his performance has been steady, it remains to be seen how long he can maintain this level of consistency as he moves into his late 30s.
Luis Severino |
Luis Severino made his MLB debut with the New York Yankees in 2015, with high expectations of becoming an ace-level pitcher. However, recurring injuries after 2020 hindered his performance and prevented him from reaching his full potential. In 2024, Severino signed a one-year contract with the Mets and has delivered a consistent, injury-free season. He has reestablished himself as a reliable starting pitcher, performing at a level reminiscent of his peak years.
J.D. Martinez |
Martinez has long been one of the premier designated hitters in the majors. He delivered a strong performance for the Dodgers last season, but with the arrival of Shohei Ohtani, his role was diminished, leading him to sign a one-year contract with the Mets. Early in the season, Martinez showcased his veteran presence and contributed significantly, but he unexpectedly fell into a major slump in the second half, with his performance declining sharply. As he enters the twilight of his career, it will be fascinating to see if Martinez can rediscover his former brilliance.
Bader, long recognized for his exceptional defense in center field, joined the Mets on a one-year contract and secured the starting center field position. Early in the season, he made significant contributions both offensively and defensively. However, he experienced a slump midseason, and in the latter half, his role shifted primarily to a defensive specialist. There is a strong belief that he could have been even more impactful without the slump, and there are high hopes for a resurgence in his performance next season.
Adam Ottavino |
Ottavino, a veteran reliever renowned for baffling major league hitters with his signature sweeper, has been a valuable asset to the Mets since joining the team in 2022. However, in recent years, his performance has started to decline, partly due to the effects of age. While he may no longer dominate as he did in his prime, Ottavino remains a reliable pitcher and a formidable presence on the mound.
Ryne Stanek |
Stanek, a veteran reliever known for his blazing fastball reaching speeds of 160 kilometers per hour, has a wealth of playoff experience. This expertise earned him a move to the Mets at the 2024 trade deadline. While his regular-season performance following the trade fell short of expectations, Stanek leveraged his postseason experience to deliver in critical moments. Despite a challenging season, he is anticipated to make a strong comeback, showcasing his dominant pitching and stiff-arm delivery.
Drew Smith |
Jesse Winker |
Winker, a left-handed hitting outfielder, joined the Mets from the Washington Nationals at the 2024 trade deadline and has made significant contributions with his dependable performance and success. Since his arrival, his energetic style of play has won over many Mets fans. Once a cornerstone player for the Cincinnati Reds, Winker has spent the past few years moving between several teams. He is expected to continue playing an important role as a key contributor next season.
Jose Iglesias |
A longtime major league shortstop, Iglesias joined the Mets this season on a minor league contract. After earning a promotion to the majors midway through the season, he made a significant impact on the team’s playoff run with his steady, veteran-like play. Adding a personal touch, he even contributed the self-composed song "OMG" as part of his journey. Although Iglesias once considered retiring, he remains a valuable player and is expected to continue his career in the majors.